Bajaj Chetak vs Hero Vida VX2
The Indian electric scooter market has exploded in 2025, offering consumers more choices than ever before. Two names stand out in this crowded battlefield: the legendary Bajaj Chetak, which carries decades of heritage into its electric avatar, and the disruptive Hero Vida VX2, which brings affordability and innovation to the masses. Both scooters promise zero-emission mobility, but which one truly deserves the crown? Let’s dive deep into this electrifying comparison.
Table of Contents
The Heritage Icon Meets the Budget Warrior
The Bajaj Chetak name evokes nostalgia for millions of Indians who grew up seeing this scooter dominate Indian roads. Now reborn as an electric vehicle, the Chetak carries forward that legacy with a modern twist. Its all-metal body construction and premium positioning make it a statement of substance over flash.
On the other side, Hero Vida VX2 represents the new wave of electric mobility—accessible, feature-packed, and designed for the budget-conscious buyer who refuses to compromise on technology. Starting at an incredibly competitive price point, the VX2 challenges traditional notions of what an affordable electric scooter can offer.
Design Language: Classic Elegance vs Modern Minimalism
The Bajaj Chetak commands attention with its retro-futuristic design. The iconic horseshoe-shaped LED daytime running lights instantly identify it from a distance, while the full metal body construction gives it a premium, tank-like solidity. Every panel, every curve speaks of quality and durability. The Chetak doesn’t just look good—it feels substantial, reassuring riders that they’re riding something built to last.
The build quality is exceptional, with tight panel gaps and a fit-and-finish that rivals scooters costing significantly more. Available in sophisticated color options, the Chetak appeals to buyers who view their scooter as more than just transportation—it’s a lifestyle choice.
Hero Vida VX2 takes a different approach. Its design is contemporary, clean, and purposeful. While it may not have the metallic heft of the Chetak, it compensates with thoughtful ergonomics and practical design elements. The styling is modern without being overtly aggressive, making it appeal to a broader audience. The VX2 feels like it was designed by people who actually ride scooters daily, with every element serving a functional purpose.
Power and Performance: The Thrill Factor
Performance is where electric scooters truly shine, and both contenders bring impressive specs to the table. The Bajaj Chetak houses a 4.2 kW BLDC motor that delivers smooth, linear power delivery. With multiple riding modes including Eco and Sport, riders can choose between maximizing range or unleashing spirited acceleration.
The Chetak’s acceleration from standstill is confident and reassuring. It doesn’t try to be a rocket ship, but instead focuses on delivering consistent, predictable power that inspires confidence. The top speed varies across variants, with the latest models capable of reaching speeds that make highway riding feasible, though not necessarily comfortable for extended periods.
Hero Vida VX2, despite its affordable positioning, doesn’t skimp on power. Its electric motor delivers peppy performance that makes urban commuting genuinely fun. The instant torque characteristic of electric motors means the VX2 feels quick off the line, easily keeping pace with traffic and providing satisfying acceleration when you need to zip through gaps.
The VX2 offers multiple ride modes, allowing riders to balance performance with range based on their daily needs. In Sport mode, the scooter feels genuinely quick, while Eco mode maximizes every watt of battery capacity for extended range.
Battery Technology and Range: The Critical Factor
Range anxiety remains the biggest concern for potential EV buyers, and both manufacturers have addressed this differently. The Bajaj Chetak comes with multiple battery options across its variants. The latest Chetak 35 series features a 3.5 kWh battery pack that delivers an impressive IDC-certified range of up to 153 kilometers on a single charge. This makes it suitable for most daily commutes without requiring mid-day charging.
Hero Vida VX2 introduces flexibility through its battery subscription model and removable battery options. The VX2 Go variant features a 2.2 kWh removable battery pack offering an IDC-certified range of 92 kilometers. The beauty of the removable battery is convenience—riders can charge it at home, office, or anywhere with a standard power outlet, without needing dedicated charging infrastructure.
The VX2 Plus variant bumps capacity for those who need extended range. The removable battery weighs around 9-10 kilograms, making it manageable for most riders to carry up a flight of stairs. Charging times from 0-80 percent take approximately 2.4 hours, while a full charge requires about 3.5 hours—perfect for overnight charging.
Technology and Features: The Smart Showdown
Modern electric scooters are computers on wheels, and both Chetak and VX2 pack impressive technology. The Bajaj Chetak features a comprehensive digital instrument cluster displaying speed, range, battery status, and riding modes. Bluetooth connectivity allows riders to pair their smartphones for navigation, call alerts, and vehicle diagnostics through the Chetak app.
The app provides valuable insights into riding patterns, battery health, and even allows remote features like vehicle tracking. The Chetak also includes practical features like USB charging ports, LED lighting all around, and generous under-seat storage that can accommodate a full-face helmet—a rare luxury in this segment.
Hero Vida VX2 takes technology seriously with features that punch well above its price point. The digital display is crisp and easy to read in various lighting conditions. Smartphone connectivity opens up a world of features including navigation, ride statistics, and remote diagnostics.
One standout feature is the vehicle’s IP67 water and dust resistance rating, meaning the VX2 can handle Indian monsoons without breaking a sweat. The scooter includes theft alerts, crash detection, and geo-fencing capabilities—features typically found on premium models.
Ride Quality and Comfort: The Daily Commute Test
Where the rubber meets the road—literally—is where these scooters reveal their true character. The Bajaj Chetak offers a planted, substantial ride quality thanks to its metal body construction and well-tuned suspension. The telescopic front forks and rear mono-shock absorb road imperfections competently, though the setup leans toward the firmer side.
The 12-inch wheels on both ends provide stability, and the 760mm seat height accommodates riders of various heights comfortably. The seat itself is well-padded and spacious enough for two adults, making short two-up rides feasible. The riding position is upright and relaxed, reducing fatigue during longer commutes.
Hero Vida VX2 prioritizes comfort and practicality. Its suspension tuning is softer than the Chetak’s, making it better suited for India’s often-challenging road surfaces. The scooter soaks up potholes and speed breakers with composure, keeping rider fatigue at bay.
The seat is comfortable for extended periods, and the floor board offers ample space for placing your feet in various positions—important for longer rides. The VX2 feels nimble and easy to maneuver through dense traffic, with a tight turning radius that makes parking and U-turns effortless.
Pricing and Value Proposition: The Deciding Factor
Price is often the ultimate deciding factor, and here the differences become stark. The Bajaj Chetak starts at approximately ₹1.22 lakh for the base variant, with the top-spec models crossing ₹1.27 lakh (ex-showroom). This positions it firmly in the premium segment, competing with established names like the TVS iQube and Ather scooters.
The Chetak’s premium pricing reflects its all-metal construction, larger battery options, established brand heritage, and superior build quality. For buyers who view their scooter as a long-term investment and value durability over everything else, the Chetak makes sense.
Hero Vida VX2 disrupts the market with aggressive pricing starting at just ₹44,990 (ex-showroom) for the base variant with battery subscription, making it one of the most affordable electric scooters from a mainstream manufacturer. Even the fully-owned variants start around ₹98,450, significantly undercutting the Chetak.
The VX2’s value proposition is compelling—you get modern features, decent range, removable battery convenience, and Hero’s extensive service network, all at a price that doesn’t require taking a massive loan. For budget-conscious buyers entering the EV space, the VX2 removes financial barriers.
Charging Infrastructure and Practicality
Charging infrastructure remains a work in progress across India, and both manufacturers approach this differently. Bajaj has partnered with various charging networks to provide fast-charging access at select locations. However, most Chetak owners will charge at home using standard 15A power outlets.
The fixed battery means you need to park the scooter near a power source, which could be challenging for apartment dwellers without dedicated parking. The full charging time varies from 4-5 hours depending on the charger used.
Hero Vida VX2’s removable battery is a game-changer for urban riders. You can simply carry the battery to your apartment, office, or even your favorite cafe and charge it using any standard outlet. This flexibility eliminates range anxiety and makes EV ownership practical even without home charging infrastructure.
The battery’s portability also means you could potentially carry a second battery for extended range—something impossible with fixed-battery scooters.
After-Sales and Service Network
Hero MotoCorp’s massive service network spanning every corner of India gives the VX2 a significant advantage. With thousands of touchpoints, getting your scooter serviced or repaired is rarely a challenge. This extensive network provides peace of mind, especially for buyers in tier-2 and tier-3 cities.
Bajaj’s service network, while extensive for their conventional vehicles, is still expanding for the electric Chetak. Service centers are concentrated in major cities, which could pose challenges for riders in smaller towns.
Both companies offer comprehensive warranties on their batteries, typically covering 3 years or 50,000 kilometers, providing assurance about the costliest component.
The Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing between the Bajaj Chetak and Hero Vida VX2 ultimately depends on your priorities and budget.
Choose the Bajaj Chetak if:
- You want the best build quality with all-metal construction
- Heritage and brand legacy matter to you
- You need maximum range for longer daily commutes
- You have access to dedicated parking with charging facilities
- Budget is less of a constraint and you’re willing to pay premium for perceived quality
- You want something that feels substantial and premium
Choose the Hero Vida VX2 if:
- Budget is a primary concern and you want maximum value
- You need charging flexibility with a removable battery
- Easy access to service centers across India is important
- You want modern features without breaking the bank
- You live in an apartment without dedicated vehicle parking
- You’re a first-time EV buyer testing the waters
Both scooters represent the exciting evolution of Indian two-wheeler mobility. The Chetak carries forward a legacy while embracing new technology. The VX2 democratizes electric mobility, making it accessible to millions who previously couldn’t afford premium EVs.
There’s no absolute winner—just the right choice for your specific needs. The electric revolution is here, and whether you choose heritage or value, you’re contributing to a cleaner, quieter, and more sustainable future. Test ride both, consider your daily usage patterns, evaluate charging infrastructure availability, and make an informed choice. Either way, you’re choosing a greener tomorrow.
