- The possibility of new technology is such as polymer-based solid-state batteries
- The aim is to not allow India to fall in a vulnerable position with a likely threat of supply squeeze
As part of India’s energy security plan, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government is exploring newer battery technologies. The possibility of new technology is such as polymer-based solid-state batteries that may allow India to avoid dependence on lithium or cobalt imports, reported Mint.
Sole dependence on lithium
This comes in the backdrop of Chinese state-owned firms securing lithium mine concessions in countries such as Bolivia, Argentina, and Chile, which forms the so-called lithium triangle. The aim is to not allow India to fall in a vulnerable position with a likely threat of supply squeeze as has happened in the case of crude oil.
Almost all-electric vehicles in the country run on imported batteries, mostly from China. At present, a lithium-ion battery accounts for 40 per cent of the total cost of an electric vehicle.
Talking about the motto of this plan, a senior government official associated with India’s electric vehicle push informed Mint that India should not substitute one energy import source with another and become hostage to external conditions. The official was further of the opinion that once enough investments happen in a particular technology, India won’t be able to do much and hence an alternative is required.
