Bajaj Auto Delays Launch of Entry-Level Chetak Electric Scooter Due to Global Supply Chain Disruptions
Bajaj Auto, one of India’s leading two-wheeler manufacturers, has announced a delay in the much-anticipated launch of its entry-level Chetak electric scooter. The company cited a persistent global shortage of rare earth magnets — a critical component in electric vehicle (EV) motors — as the primary reason behind the setback.
Rare earth magnets are essential for the permanent magnet motors used in most electric scooters, including Bajaj’s Chetak lineup. These specialized materials, sourced largely from a limited number of countries, have been in short supply due to rising global EV demand, geopolitical tensions, and logistical bottlenecks. The supply crunch has created a ripple effect across the EV industry, slowing production schedules and forcing manufacturers to rethink timelines.
Bajaj Auto confirmed that the shortage has directly impacted its EV motor production capacity, leading to a temporary halt in manufacturing for the entry-level Chetak variant. While the premium versions of the scooter will continue to be available, the new, more affordable model — designed to attract first-time EV buyers — will see its market debut postponed.
The company emphasized that it is actively working with suppliers to overcome the disruption, exploring alternate sourcing strategies, and optimizing production processes to minimize delays. Despite the setback, Bajaj assured customers and dealers that the delay is temporary and that it remains committed to expanding its EV portfolio in line with India’s growing demand for sustainable mobility solutions.
Industry experts note that such disruptions highlight the vulnerability of EV supply chains, especially when it comes to specialized components like rare earth magnets. With governments worldwide pushing for faster EV adoption, manufacturers may need to diversify sourcing and invest in localized production capabilities to reduce dependency on global bottlenecks.
While Bajaj Auto has not disclosed the revised launch date for the entry-level Chetak, insiders suggest that the company is aiming for a rollout once supply stabilizes — potentially later in the year. In the meantime, Bajaj will continue marketing its existing Chetak variants and further invest in EV R&D to strengthen its position in the rapidly evolving electric two-wheeler market.
The delay serves as a reminder that even major players in the automotive industry are not immune to the challenges of a globally intertwined supply chain — especially in the fast-growing EV sector, where every component counts.
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