India’s market for electric two-wheelers has seen significant changes recently, welcoming several new models. This is valid for both TVS and Bajaj Auto, as the latter introduced the iQube in its most economical trim while the former introduced the 2024 Chetak Urbane. Both companies are situated in Chakan. Here is the outcome of our paper comparison test between the two electric scooters.
BATTERY AND MOTOR
The iQube is powered by a 2.2kWh battery with a maximum speed of 75 km/h. However, an additional battery option with a 3.4kWh capacity is available, with a top speed of 80 km/h and a maximum range of 100 km.
A 2.9kWh battery with a 113km maximum range powers the Chetak Urbane. With the TecPac, you can increase its top speed from the restricted 63 kmph to 73 kmph. The Chetak offers a noticeably longer range than the iQube while having a lower top speed.
DESIGN
Since its launch, all of the TVS iQube’s models have used the same design. It has a slightly boxy form and seems straightforward. It’s not showy, but it looks modern and valuable. Conversely, the Chetak e-scooter draws its design influence from the classic Chetak (petrol-powered) model of yesteryear. Thus, the Chetak EV receives a classic old-school design along with a curved, flowing shape. The Chetak’s rounded headlight and arching tail end give it a unique appearance.
HARDWARE
Telescopic front forks and dual rear springs support the TVS iQube while riding. It has 12-inch wheels with 90/90 tyres wrapped around a front disc and a rear drum braking arrangement. However, the Chetak is equipped with a single front and rear shock absorber and a drum brake on each end. Thanks to its hardware, the iQube receives an additional point.
FEATURES
The TVS iQube has a five-inch TFT with LED lighting, call/SMS alerts, distance to empty, crash and fall alert, geo-fencing, anti-theft alert, live indicator status, park assist, and a USB charging port. It also has turn-by-turn navigation, OTA updates, and two ride modes: Economy and Power.
The Chetak is available from Bajaj with a color LCD, Eco mode, and restricted smartphone connectivity. However, the TecPac, which costs an extra Rs. 8,000, comes with full connection capabilities like call management, music control, and geo-fencing, in addition to an extra ride mode called sport, hill hold, and reverse mode. The TVS iQube undoubtedly offers a more significant feature set than the Chetak.
PRICE
The starting price of the TVS electric scooter for its 2.2 kWh model is Rs. 1,13,422. The remaining versions, iQube Standard, iQube S – 3.4 kWh, iQube ST – 3.4 kWh, and iQube ST – 5.1 kWh, cost 1,98,408, 1,65,096, 1,68,052, and 1,55,106 rupees respectively. The iQube pricing shown is for Delhi’s on-road costs.
The price of Chetak 2901 Edition is Rs. 89,501. The remaining varieties, which are priced at Rs. 92,125, Rs. 1,32,471, Rs. 1,40,471, Rs. 1,47,704, Rs. 1,57,154, and Rs. 1,66,154, are the Chetak 2901 Edition TecPac, Chetak Urbane Standard [2024], Chetak Urbane TecPac [2024], Chetak Premium Edition [2023], Chetak Premium [2024], and Chetak Premium TecPac [2024]. The Chetak pricing shown is for Delhi’s on-road costs.
