The framework introduces the concept of captive charging and swapping stations for fleet operators and organisations, ensuring operational efficiency and scalability.New Delhi: The ministry of power has issued comprehensive guidelines to promote battery swapping and charging infrastructure for electric vehicles (EVs) across the country. The initiative aims to establish a robust framework for battery swapping, enhancing the efficiency and convenience of EV operations and supporting India’s transition to sustainable mobility.
The guidelines, titled "Guidelines for Installation and Operation of Battery Swapping and Battery Charging Stations", provide a structured approach to implementing battery swapping infrastructure, addressing safety protocols, operational standards, and regulatory requirements. These guidelines are applicable to all swappable battery providers and operators of Battery Charging Stations (BCS) and Battery Swapping Stations (BSS).
Objectives and definitions
The ministry outlined three key objectives: promoting battery swapping as an alternative method to power EVs, encouraging the adoption of the "Battery as a Service" (BaaS) model, and fostering the development of a comprehensive battery swapping ecosystem. The guidelines define critical elements, including swappable batteries, battery providers, and battery-to-grid systems, which enable EV batteries to store energy and supply electricity back to the grid when required.
Pulkit Khurana, co-founder of Battery Smart, commended the move, stating, “The ministry of power’s recognition of battery swapping as a viable alternative to conventional charging marks a significant step forward in India’s electric mobility journey. These guidelines establish a strong foundation for the EV ecosystem, reinforcing battery swapping’s potential to overcome traditional charging barriers and drive widespread EV adoption.”
Key provisions
Under the guidelines, operators of BCS and BSS will be allowed to use existing electricity connections, with or without an increase in connected load. The infrastructure can also deploy liquid-cooled swappable batteries for larger vehicles, including buses and trucks. Safety measures mandated under existing laws will apply to all battery swapping and charging stations.
Khurana further emphasised the importance of these initiatives in accelerating India’s green mobility goals, adding, “At Battery Smart, we’re committed to building a nationwide swapping network that makes EV ownership accessible and affordable for all.”
Battery swapping ecosystem
The framework introduces the concept of captive charging and swapping stations for fleet operators and organisations, ensuring operational efficiency and scalability. Public BSS and BCS facilities will cater to broader EV users, enabling faster adoption of battery swapping technology.
The ministry’s guidelines are expected to create new business opportunities while addressing challenges such as charging time, range anxiety, and high upfront costs of EV batteries. The initiative aligns with India’s larger goal of achieving sustainable mobility and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Industry impact
Industry stakeholders have welcomed the guidelines as a forward-looking step toward meeting India’s ambitious EV targets. The establishment of a formal framework for battery swapping is expected to attract investments, spur technological innovation, and improve EV accessibility for consumers.
The ministry has stated that these guidelines will evolve with technological advancements and regulatory updates, ensuring they remain relevant and effective in the rapidly growing EV sector.
The move is seen as a significant milestone in India’s journey toward sustainable mobility, with battery swapping playing a crucial role in addressing the challenges associated with traditional charging methods.
