Bajaj Auto is set to reintroduce the Sunny scooter, but this time as an Electric Vehicle (EV). The company aims to position the Sunny EV as a more affordable option compared to its popular Chetak EV.
Recent test photos of the Sunny EV reveal that it will feature a straightforward hub-mounted motor and will be built on Bajaj’s in-house-developed Yulu platform. The design of the new Sunny closely resembles its predecessor from the mid-1990s, with a rounded headlamp, a spacious front fender, a slim floorboard, and a boxy tail lamp. It retains elements such as the three-spoke wheels, trailing arm front suspension, drum brakes, and rear grab handle/carrier. However, there are some notable differences, including the absence of a right-side exhaust pipe and a spare tire on the floorboard. Instead, a sizeable battery pack is visible, although it may be exclusive to the testing phase.
The original Sunny was powered by a 60cc two-stroke engine, offering modest performance. The upcoming electric version is expected to deliver comparable performance, but with the added benefit of electric torque, enhancing low-speed acceleration and load-carrying capability.
Based on the presence of a hub motor and its smaller dimensions compared to the Chetak, it is speculated that the new Sunny EV will share the Yulu platform. Yulu vehicles typically have a top speed of 25kph and do not require a two-wheeler license. However, the Sunny EV is expected to have brisk acceleration, reaching speeds of around 40-50kph. The battery size has not been disclosed, but it is anticipated to be smaller than the Chetak’s 2.9kWh unit, and there may be an option for a removable battery.
While no specific release date has been announced for the Sunny EV, Bajaj aims to capitalize on the nostalgia associated with the Sunny name, just as they did successfully with the Chetak. With the evolving landscape of subsidies and the increasing demand for affordable EVs for short urban commutes, Bajaj sees an opportunity to offer a budget-friendly electrified scooter option.
Sources:
– No specific sources mentioned