IIT Guwahati technology can standardise EV Manufacturing in India

Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati researchers have come up with one of its kind technology that rates the motors and batteries of electric vehicles. The technology also suggests to the electric vehicle manufacturers about the best drivetrain for the Indian scenario. A drivetrain is basically a group of components in an EV meant to deliver power to the drive wheels. IIT researchers say that the unique method can standardise EVs based on Indian drive-cycles.

The move appears relevant in a market where not much adaption seems to have been done for Indian conditions. Recent incidents of batteries catching fire for instance, have been partly blamed on manufacturers not adapting them for Indian road conditions, which can cause a lot more jolts and movement to battery cases.

Indian drive cycles have not been taken into account in any research so far. Even rural and urban drive cycles were not considered besides the climatic variations found in India. The Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) were awaiting drive cycle data of Indian vehicles. IIT Guwahati say that their research will lead to more efficient drivetrains based on varied regions of India apart from helping the start-ups, reduce vehicular emissions and decrease fuel consumption. IIT Guwahati says that their technology is unique and not found elsewhere.

“The development in the field of next-generation energy-efficient EV technology is one of the most important breakthroughs required for the sustainable development of the country and to reduce the carbon footprint. IIT Guwahati is earnestly working in this direction. This development will augment this process and maximize the outcomes,” said T. G. Sitharam, Director, IIT Guwahati.

Praveen Kumar led the team of researchers of the Electric Mobility Laboratory of the institution, that focused on Indian climatic conditions for rural and urban expanses. The institution says that a drive train developed in a humid area doesn’t work in dry or cold environments. Hence, the manufacturers look to come up with standard drive cycles for Indian conditions.

“Our goal is to prepare a document that can enable the new entrants into the EV market and help in levelling the playing field. The other primary benefit of this entire exercise is to prepare the next generation of technocrats that are ready for an excellent career in EV technology anywhere in the world,” said Praveen Kumar.

The research was absolutely focused on two wheelers. They are now working to develop this technology for four-wheelers too. “The development in the field of next-generation energy-efficient EV technology is one of the most important breakthroughs required for the sustainable development of the country and to reduce carbon footprint. We are earnestly working in this direction. This development will augment this process and maximize the outcomes,” added Praveen Kumar.