EV batteries will get Aadhar-like ID to facilitate tracking and circular economy

To boost safety, tracking, and recycling, the Road Transport Ministry has proposed assigning a unique identification number (UIN) to electric vehicle batteries. 

Similar to Aadhar, the UIN will be used to trace batteries in their lifecycle from manufacturer to disposal

As per the proposal, every battery manufacturer and importer will have to give a 21-character Battery Pack Aadhaar Number (BAPN) to each battery.

In addition, the company will need to upload all pertinent battery data to an official BPAN portal.

According to the guidelines, the BPAN needs to be positioned on the battery in an easily visible and easily accessible area in a way that it should not be destroyed during the battery’s lifecycle. 

The draft states that the BPAN system will retain important data about batteries, from the extraction and manufacturing of raw materials to their use, recycling, and eventual disposal.

The guideline also dictates that the manufacturer or some other producer must change the BAPN in case a battery is recycled or repurposed. 

According to the ministry, the suggested system aims to improve the battery ecosystem's sustainability, accountability, and openness.

The system is anticipated to facilitate improved regulatory compliance, second-life usage, and effective recycling by monitoring battery performance and environmental impact. 

Currently, electric vehicles make up between 80 and 90 per cent of India's entire demand for lithium-ion batteries—much higher than industrial or non-automotive applications.

The proposed recommendations suggest prioritising electric vehicle batteries in establishing standards under the BPAN system due to its scale and the safety and regulatory issues involved.

The government stated that concentrating on EV batteries in the first phase will help handle the most significant part of India's battery ecosystem, even though the framework is advised for industrial batteries larger than 2 kWh.

The proposal suggests developing the Battery Pack Aadhaar framework by Athe utomotive Industry Standard route under the Automotive Industry Standards Committee. This procedure will enable technical inspections, organised stakeholder engagements, and compliance with current vehicle regulations. 

The committee may comprise representatives from battery manufacturers, electric vehicle makers, testing agencies, recyclers, and regulatory bodies to ensure the practical application of the guidelines.