New Delhi

In a significant move to enhance the safety of electric vehicles (EVs) in India, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has introduced two new standards: IS 18590: 2024 and IS 18606: 2024. These standards aim to address the safety concerns associated with the powertrains and batteries of electric vehicles across various categories.

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Focus on powertrain and battery safety

The newly introduced standards are tailored to ensure that the critical components of EVs, particularly the powertrain, adhere to stringent safety requirements. IS 18590: 2024 pertains to the L category of EVs, which includes vehicles with four wheels or less. On the other hand, IS 18606: 2024 is designed for the M and N categories, which encompass vehicles with at least four wheels used for transporting passengers and goods.

These standards not only emphasise the safety of the powertrain but also ensure that the batteries used in these vehicles are both powerful and secure. The introduction of these regulations is a part of BIS’s broader effort to create a comprehensive framework for EV safety in India.

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Impact on different categories of EVs

The new standards cover a wide range of EVs. The L category includes vehicles like e-rickshaws and e-karts, which are gaining popularity across India due to their affordability and eco-friendliness. The M and N categories include passenger vehicles and goods carriers, respectively. With these new additions, BIS now has a total of 30 standards dedicated to EVs and their accessories, including charging systems.

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Comprehensive safety for e-rickshaws and e-karts

Recognising the growing popularity of e-rickshaws and e-karts, BIS has also introduced IS 18294: 2023. This standard specifically addresses the safety requirements of these vehicles, covering various aspects from construction to functionality. By setting these standards, BIS aims to ensure the safety of both drivers and passengers, thereby promoting the adoption of these eco-friendly vehicles.

BIS's vision for a sustainable transportation system

In a statement issued on June 22, 2024, BIS emphasised the importance of these standards in driving the transition to a more sustainable, environmentally friendly, and efficient transportation system in the country. "The shift to electric mobility extends beyond cars and trucks. E-rickshaws and e-karts are gaining popularity across India. To address this, BIS has introduced IS 18294: 2023, which establishes safety standards specifically for these vehicles. These standards cover various aspects, from construction to functionality, ensuring the safety of both drivers and passengers," stated BIS.

Ensuring quality and safety in EV adoption

The introduction of these standards is a crucial step towards ensuring that the adoption of EVs in India is not only widespread but also safe. By setting stringent safety requirements for the powertrain and batteries of EVs, BIS aims to mitigate the risks associated with these vehicles, thereby boosting consumer confidence in this emerging technology.

Encouraging industry compliance

For manufacturers, complying with these standards will be essential to ensure that their vehicles are deemed safe and reliable. This move is expected to encourage innovation and quality improvements within the industry, as manufacturers strive to meet these new safety requirements. By doing so, they will be able to offer safer and more efficient vehicles to the consumers, thereby contributing to the overall growth of the EV market in India.

The BIS's introduction of IS 18590: 2024 and IS 18606: 2024 marks a significant milestone in the journey towards safer electric vehicles in India. These standards are poised to play a pivotal role in ensuring that the transition to electric mobility is smooth, safe, and sustainable. By focusing on the safety of the powertrain and batteries, and extending these standards to popular vehicles like e-rickshaws and e-karts, BIS is laying the groundwork for a robust and secure EV ecosystem in India.

(Inputs from Reuters)