EV Sector Should Switch to Completely Indigenous Batteries: Nitin Gadkari

Ministry of Road Transport & Highways asked the EV industry to shift towards indigenous battery technologies. With electric vehicles (EVs) fast becoming the new reality, the need to emerge as pioneers in developing leading battery and power-train technologies, the ministry stated.

In a statement, “Noting that the challenge we presently face is the control on strategic reserves of Lithium, which is used to manufacture Lithium-ion rechargeable batteries used in vehicles,” said the Ministry.

“The minister has called upon the EV sector to shift towards a completely indigenous battery technology in the coming years,” the statement continued.

Moreover, they pointed out what could be the possible technologies, that can be used for the indigenous production of EV batteries. It could be metal-air, metal-ion, and other potential technologies in the R&D pipeline.

Stressing on to achieve Atmanirbhar Bharat’s goal in the transport sector is the need of the hour. Union minister Nitin Gadkari stated, “It is necessary to dedicate the coming years to rigorous research and development of such alternative battery technologies with the support of Institutions of Eminence (IoEs), industry, scientists, engineers, and the government.”

Interestingly, not only the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways but, EV sector itself has definite aims to rush EV adoption in the country. As EV Sector Hopes For Charging Push and targeted Incentives From Budget 2021.

The Industry body Society of Manufacturers of Electric Vehicles (SMEV) has asked for a rejig of the FAME II scheme or reintroduction of FAME I, due to the achievement of less than 10 percent of its target by FAME 2. While, the Rs 10,000-crore FAME-II scheme which is to be implemented over three years came into effect on April 1, 2019.

Moreover, EV manufacturers and consumers are expecting some new EV policies considering the affordable upfront cost of EVs, availability of quality affordable products in the market, and robust EV charging infrastructure.