BIS introduces new standards, IS 18590: 2024 and IS 18606: 2024, to enhance EV safety and performance. These standards focus on powertrain and battery systems across different vehicle categories.
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) operating under the Department of Consumer Affairs, Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution of the Government of India, has introduced two new guidelines IS 18590: 2024 and IS 18606: 2024 to enhance electric vehicle safety across different categories.
These standards focus on crucial powertrain components and battery safety. They are intended to ensure stringent safety measures across all categories of EVs, including cars, buses, trucks, e-rickshaws, and E-Karts. BIS now oversees 30 local standards dedicated to EVs and their accessories, encompassing charging systems.
Category L includes two-wheelers, while categories M and N encompass four-wheelers and goods trucks. These measures ensure that EVs meet stringent safety and performance criteria as they continue to increase in the Indian market.
The latest addition, IS 18294: 2023, explicitly targets e-rickshaws and E-Karts, setting forth comprehensive safety guidelines to safeguard drivers and passengers. These standards are pivotal as EVs continue to gain popularity beyond traditional automobiles, emphasizing performance and the security and reliability of their power sources.
As India’s National Standards Body, BIS is critical in formulating and promoting standards that enhance product and service quality across various industries. By facilitating compliance with these stringent EV standards, BIS supports the growth of a safer and more reliable electric vehicle market in India, aligning with broader efforts to promote sustainable and technologically advanced transportation solutions nationwide.
