BIS Launches New EV Safety Standards to Strengthen India’s Electric Mobility Ecosystem

As India rapidly advances towards electric mobility, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has introduced a new set of safety standards aimed at improving the reliability, safety, and quality of Electric Vehicles (EVs) operating in the country. These newly notified standards—IS 18590:2024, IS 18606:2024, and IS 18294:2023—represent a major regulatory development and form a critical foundation for a safer EV and EV charging ecosystem.

Overview of the Newly Introduced BIS EV Standards

The latest BIS standards focus on electric powertrain safety and battery performance, addressing growing concerns related to EV fires, component failures, and inconsistent product quality. The standards apply across multiple vehicle categories:

i. ) IS 18590:2024 – Applicable to L-category electric vehicles, including electric two-wheelers and three-wheelers.

ii. ) IS 18606:2024 – Applicable to M and N category vehicles, covering electric four-wheelers and commercial electric trucks.

iii. ) IS 18294:2023 – Introduced specifically for e-rickshaws and e-karts, addressing their construction, functionality, and operational safety.

Together, these standards strengthen regulatory oversight across the full spectrum of electric vehicles used in India.

Key Safety Focus Areas Under the New BIS Standards

1. Powertrain Safety

The standards introduce stringent safety requirements for critical powertrain components, including electric motors, transmission systems, and integrated control units. These measures ensure reliable operation under Indian road and environmental conditions.

2. Battery Safety and Performance

Battery systems, being the most sensitive and risk-prone component of EVs, are subject to robust safety and performance requirements. The standards focus on reducing risks associated with thermal runaway, electrical faults, and charging-related hazards, which directly impacts the design and compliance of EV charging systems.

Why These Standards Matter for the EV and EV Charger Industry

The introduction of these standards is particularly significant as India now has 30 BIS standards dedicated to electric vehicles and EV-related accessories, including charging systems. Their impact extends beyond vehicle manufacturers to EV charger manufacturers, importers, and infrastructure developers.

Key benefits include:

i. ) Enhanced Safety: Minimizes risks arising from substandard components and helps address incidents related to EV battery fires.

ii. ) Comprehensive Coverage: Covers all major EV segments—from scooters and cars to heavy-duty trucks and e-rickshaws.

iii. ) Support for EV Adoption: Builds consumer confidence in electric vehicles and supports India’s long-term green mobility and decarbonization goals.

As vehicles become compliant with stricter safety norms, EV chargers must also meet corresponding BIS requirements to ensure safe, compatible, and reliable charging operations.

BIS Certification Scheme for EV Chargers

Relevance to BIS Certification for EV Chargers

With BIS strengthening safety norms for EV powertrains and batteries, EV charging equipment is under increased regulatory focus. Chargers must align with applicable BIS standards to safely interface with BIS-certified vehicles, making certification essential for legal market entry and long-term operations in India.

Key Implications for EV Charger Stakeholders:

i. ) Compatibility Requirements: EV chargers must be compatible with BIS-certified EV powertrains and battery systems

ii. ) Safety Alignment: Charging protocols must meet enhanced safety benchmarks for thermal and electrical protection

iii. ) Regulatory Compliance: BIS certification under IS 17017 series becomes increasingly critical

iv. ) Market Access: Non-compliant chargers cannot be sold or installed in India

Why BIS Certification is Critical for EV Charger Businesses

i. ) Legal Compliance: Mandatory for manufacturing, import, and sale in India

ii. ) Safety Assurance: Ensures protection against electrical and thermal hazards during charging

iii. ) Market Credibility: Builds trust with consumers, fleet operators, and infrastructure developers

iv. ) Competitive Advantage: Required for participation in government tenders and public charging projects

v. ) Future-Proofing: Prepares businesses for evolving regulatory requirements in India's growing EV market

How Standphill India Can Help

Standphill India supports manufacturers and importers with end-to-end BIS certification services for EV chargers and charging infrastructure. From identifying applicable standards to coordinating testing and documentation, our compliance experts ensure smooth and timely certification in line with evolving BIS regulations.

Our comprehensive services include:

i. ) Applicability assessment and standard identification

ii. ) Documentation preparation and technical file compilation

iii. ) Coordination with BIS-recognized testing laboratories

iv. ) Factory audit preparation and support

v. ) Application submission and follow-up with BIS authorities

vi. ) Post-certification compliance and renewal support

Implementation Timeline & Compliance Requirements

Conclusion

The launch of IS 18590:2024, IS 18606:2024, and IS 18294:2023 marks a decisive step by BIS to enhance safety, reliability, and trust in India's electric mobility ecosystem. While these standards focus on vehicles, their implications directly affect EV chargers, charging stations, and supporting electrical equipment.

Early compliance with BIS norms is critical for manufacturers and infrastructure providers looking to succeed in India's fast-growing EV market.

For expert assistance with BIS certification for EV chargers in India, connect with Standphill India, your trusted regulatory compliance consultant for electric vehicle infrastructure and components.