Though Rajiv Bajaj continues to vehemently deny the existence of a Bajaj automatic scooter, we all know there is one currently undergoing tests on public roads. The retro-classic automatic scooter is most likely to be the maiden product under the Pune-base two wheeler maker’s premium Urbanite brand.
Bajaj is exploring the possibility of reviving one of its iconic scooter nameplates under the Urbanite umbrella. Sources reveal that three names were shortlisted – Chetak, Legend and Stride. While all the three names have a good brand recall among the audience, Chetak is easily the strongest of the lot.
So, there is a good chance that the upcoming Urbanite automatic scooter could be adopting the iconic nameplate of yesteryear. We think that evoking nostalgia with the Chetak nameplate and backing it up with a strong product would help the automaker have a strong start with its scooter project.
The prototypes of Urbanite scooters have already started testing extensively in and around Pune. Both petrol and electric variants have been spotted so far. Urbanite brand will be launched soon with the petrol powered variant while the fully electric scooter would take around 18 months to be ready for the market.
Technical specifications are under wraps as of now but Bajaj Auto is unlikely to go head-on against the 110 cc mass market products like Honda Activa. The IC-engined model is likely to cater to the 125 cc segment (Activa 125) while the electric variant will have Ather 450 in its cross-hairs.
The curvaceous styling may have a classic appeal but the scooter will be equipped with modern features like LED DRLs, fully digital instrument cluster (at least in the electric variant), optional front disc, USB charger and so on. Urbanite would spawn a range of products in the coming years and Bajaj is likely to float it as a standalone brand eventually. However, in the initial phase, we expect the Urbanite products to be retailed by select Bajaj outlets.
Rajiv Bajaj is enthusiastic about the prospects of electric two wheelers in the future. In a recent interview, the head honcho stated that he would rather have the company fail in an EV market experiment during early days than being late to the market and lose the advantage permanently.
