Priced quite similarly, both have strong feature lists and everyday usability, but their personalities are quite different. The C3501 focuses on a neo-retro appeal and practical packaging, while the V2 Pro emphasises performance, technology, and a sportier edge. So, which of these two makes the stronger case for buyers?

Prices & Variants

• The Chetak 3501 commands a premium of Rs 19,305 over the Vida V2 Pro.

• The Chetak 3501's standard warranty covers 3 years/50,000km on both the vehicle and battery, while the Vida V2 Pro offers a 5-year/50,000km warranty on the vehicle and 3 years/30,000km on the batteries.

• Both offer extended warranty options. Chetak's extended warranty add-on covers the scooter and battery for 5 years/70,000km. Meanwhile, Vida's extended battery protection plan covers the battery for 5 years/60,000km, and its comprehensive warranty plan also provides battery protection along with coverage on 11 critical components for 5 years/75,000km.

• While Chetak offers Roadside Assistance (RSA) as an annual add-on purchase, Vida gives it as a complimentary benefit for the first year of purchase.

Design & Dimensions

• While both scooters are heavier than petrol-powered scooters, the V2 Pro is still a bit lighter than the Chetak. This makes the Vida slightly more manageable in traffic and the Chetak more stable on open roads.

• Both scooters have almost similar seat heights, but the higher ground clearance gives the 3501 an advantage over speed breakers and rough urban roads.

• The two scooters look completely different. While the Chetak 3501 adapts a neo-retro approach, the Vida V2 appears sharper and more contemporary.

• The Chetak features a solid metal body, smoother surfacing and a more premium, elegant finish. The Vida, meanwhile, sports an edgy, layered styling that gives it an aggressive stance and a distinct modern identity.

Ride & Handling

• Both scooters are built on tubular steel frames, but the lower centre of gravity (CG), due to a floor-mounted battery pack, should make the Bajaj scooter feel slightly more planted than the Vida V2 Pro.

• While Chetak's suspension setup goes pretty well with its neo-retro design concept, it also offers decent comfort and confidence. However, the more contemporary setup of the V2 Pro should make it feel more composed and better handling.

• The larger front disc brake should provide the Chetak with slightly stronger braking performance.

• Both scooters roll on 12-inch alloy wheels; however, the Vida may offer slightly better grip, thanks to a wider rear tyre.

Features & Technology

• The Vida scooter V2 Pro features a 7-inch touchscreen, which is larger than the Chetak's 5-inch unit.

• The map navigation feature on the C3501 is much more convenient than the turn-by-turn navigation on the V2 Pro.

• The V2 Pro clearly offers more advanced riding-assist features than the C3501, including more riding modes and cruise control.

• The Chetak offers a larger underseat storage space and even a front glovebox.

• The C3501's TecPac commands Rs 5,000 extra to enable some features that come standard with the V2 Pro.

Powertrain & Performance

• The Chetak produces 1.8kW less than the Vida.

• The V2 Pro also features a larger battery pack, claiming to return a slightly longer claimed range than the 3501.

• Alongside accelerating more quickly, the V2 Pro also has a higher top speed than the3501.

• The Chetak 3501 requires a shorter time to get recharged at home. However, the Vida V2 Pro offers a much greater charging flexibility. You can charge it through a portable charger, charge its removable batteries separately anywhere, and it even supports public fast charging.

Verdict

If you have a thing for neo-retro or you want a scooter that feels special and premium, then the Chetak 3501 serves the purpose in style. It is less complicated and has reasonable stamina, along with a focus on practicality for everyday use.

The Vida V2 Pro, on the other hand, is more of an all-rounder. It has better tech, higher performance, and flexibility when it comes to charging. With that, it solves the biggest problem that people have with EVs in India.

Other Rivals:

• The Chetak 3001 claims a substantially higher range than the iQube 2.2kWh.

• Despite undercutting the Chetak 3501 in terms of pricing, the TVS iQube S offers a similar package on paper.

• Even the base Ather Rizta S offers a better top speed than the Chetak 3001. You may also take a look at the slightly better variant, the Rizta S 3.7kWh.

• When it comes to battery warranty, the Ather Rizta Z takes a significant leap over the Chetak 3501.

• The Ola S1 X 3kWh promises better features and performance than the Chetak 3001.

• The Chetak 3501 commands a significant premium on price over the Ola SI Pro 4kWh, which has a higher top speed and range.

• With removable battery packs, the Vida VX2 Plus offers more flexible charging options than the Chetak 3001.

• The River Indie is a more versatile electric scooter that also looks more special than the Chetak 3501.

• The Ampere Nexus ST has a clear performance edge over the Chetak 3501.