When it comes to sheer production and sales volumes alone, Bajaj Auto is one of the world's biggest two and three-wheeler manufacturers. Despite the fact that India is their most important market, the company has a global reach in multiple countries all over the world. More specifically, Bajaj exports to more than 70 countries worldwide.
Chetak Technology's new manufacturing facility in Akurdi was recently opened by Bajaj Auto. This manufacturing facility was built exclusively for Bajaj's subsidiary firm Chetak Technology's EV development and production. In an article published by Indian automotive publication Rush Lane, Rakesh Sharma, Bajaj Auto's executive director, revealed what the company is working on right now and what it expects to be working on in the future.
According to Sharma, the manufacturer is focused on preserving a synergy between its EV and IC engine vehicle portfolios. Sharma also highlighted Bajaj Auto's doubts about going all-in on electric vehicles quite yet. This is because the progression from internal combustion engines to powered mobility is not yet progressing at a rate that justifies a complete shift in strategy.
However, Bajaj Auto recognizes the importance of electric vehicles in areas like India, where they are gaining popularity at an unprecedented rate. Bajaj chose to create Chetak Technology as a subsidiary to provide full concentration and improvements to this rapidly growing mobility sector. Bajaj hopes to turn Chetak Technology into a global hub for electric vehicle design, research, and production.
One of the most eagerly awaited projects to emerge from Chetak Technology's facilities is an electric version of the Pulsar motorcycle line. If this bike is built, it will most likely have the same chassis and body panels as its gas-powered siblings. We can also expect to find similar components seen in the Pulsar range, such as brakes and suspension. Indeed, it will be fascinating to see a manufacturer like Bajaj expand its EV line beyond electric scooters to include full-size motorcycles. Surely, this will please the enthusiast market, which has been yearning for sportier yet more affordable electric motorbike options for some time.
To make things even better, there’s a sliver of hope that Bajaj’s electric two-wheelers will make their way beyond the Indian market. Chetak Technology is considering marketing Chetak EVs in other countries. Particularly in ASEAN countries like Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines, where scooters account for more than 90percent of the market. Even though Bajaj Auto is quite new to ASEAN countries, we could expect the company to enter this lucrative market with its electric vehicles after supply chains have stabilized.
