The word 'Chetak' does not need any introduction in India, its the legendary horse of Indian warrior Rana Pratap Singh but Bajaj Auto decided to give that horse to every common people in India in the form of a scooter called 'Bajaj Chetak'. Bajaj Chetak was launched in 1972 and soon this scooter became affordable means of transportation for millions of Indian families for decades. Bajaj used the tag 'Hamara Bajaj' (our Bajaj) for their scooters at that time which made each of us has a special bonding with two wheelers. The scooters made by Bajaj has a lot of sentimental importance and value for us. It was like the first two wheeler for every family which gave them the feeling of freedom, It was a thing to be proud of by middle class families.
Bajaj Chetak was a 150cc scooter with 2 stroke engine (before 2002) which produces Power of 7.5 BHP & a torque of 1.1kgm @ 3500 rpm , it had 4 speed manual transmission, with shifter in the left hand grip. Scooters had a monopoly on Indian two wheeler market but time began to change, Bajaj who sold over a lakh units monthly was selling few hundreds each month. Scooter market overtaken by motorcycles which gave better mileage and appeal. So Bajaj decided to stop the production of scooters in 2009 and focus on motorcycle segment. This decision taken by Bajaj broke hearts of many people of that era, as the gentry were so attached to Bajaj scooters. Many of you have ridden Bajaj scooters Chetak, Priya, Super.etc or have seen your dad and uncles riding one like me. Even if you today open YouTube and watch the 'Hamara Bajaj' TVC, you will feel nostalgic, it was that good.Now we know two wheeler market in India took a turn and people are preferring scooters again, scooter market is growing day after day. Now manufacturers like Honda and TVS has left Bajaj behind and the only reason is scooters. Bajaj came down to 4th position from 2nd position, so now as the reports are suggesting Bajaj may relaunch Chetak in India. We believe this is a good step taken by Bajaj to regain their lost market share and gain their position back.
What do you think about this step taken by Bajaj? will they get the same success again by the relaunch of Chetak? Do share you mind with us.
Source: Autocar
By: Shafqat