Role of IoT in boosting mass adoption of EVs in India

Soaring petrol prices and responsibility towards SDGs (sustainable development goals) have paved the way for the much-needed big push in the direction of electric vehicles (EVs). EVs have gradually become the ideal alternative for e-commerce transfers and commuter transportation vehicles, the future appears to be encouraging. On one hand, the demand for EV vehicles is growing, and on the other hand, there are these challenges that need to be addressed. At every touchpoint of the EV value chain, the pace of growth is different. IoT plays a significant role in reducing these complications by focusing on the core of most ambiguities by giving real-time data.

Start-ups with new-age technologies like IoT enable OEMs to manufacture vehicles that are reliable at the core. Using IoT helps the end consumer save energy, time, fuel, and money. Over and above these amazing advantages, it makes the vehicle safer to travel by giving accurate information about the condition of the various parts of the vehicle, real-time traffic and road situation during the journey, the driver’s near and dear ones can track the vehicle.

Drivers of EV adoption in India

Dr. Rishi Mohan Bhatnagar President at Aeris Communications

EV acceptance persists increasingly in the passenger market in India. The main reason behind the same is the fact that more and more people are looking to take advantage of the technology shift from internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. EVs will be empowered by IoT and other new-age technologies and are being made with the main to make the journey safer and comfortable. And this has caused tremendous affinity in the consumer and created a positive mindset towards buying an EV, not just in India, but also globally.

As per the Vahan portal, electric three-wheelers (3Ws) have risen to nearly five percent of the total 3Ws registered in the fiscal year’22, which is one percent less than the fiscal year’18. For electric two-wheelers (2Ws) and buses, the percentages rose to almost 2% and 4%, respectively.

The demand for EVs is rising in India. Central government schemes like Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles in India (FAME-India), Phased Manufacturing Plan, and Production Linked Incentive has jump-started EV sales in India.

In the recent past, a Jaipur-based startup launched a high-tech, SIM card-based scooter that promises a premium product that is affordable and comfortable. The EV runs on an internet-based application and offers features like GPS Tracking, geofencing, secure park, remote immobilization, and much more.

EV adoption benefits

Contemporary technology organizations are capitalizing on IoT-enabled transportation in order to build a combined EV platform that will help drivers to expand their income opportunities and get funding. All this will help in giving a superior commuter experience which will make EV deployment successful in India. Apart from this, it will also facilitate real-time tracking of transport and other important enterprise assets.

Predictive and preventive maintenance provided by IoT empowered devices makes the vehicles more reliable and safer for passengers. In India, EV manufacturers are choosing Li-ion batteries packs because they have a longer life and provide an improved coverage as they are capable of high energy density.

To foresee failure and fatalities while the vehicle is on-road or otherwise, the IoT devices empowered by AI algorithms utilize the remote IoT data which is pivotal. The system is designed to help in alerting EV owners in advance and give them enough time to resolve any errors or avoid a complete breakdown. This advanced sense of safety and security is drawing a lot of end-user interest toward EVs.

EV charging stations

With a proper IoT ecosystem in place, EV charging stations have been planned in a way to always stay connected. They are being built extensively for greater accessibility even in remote areas. Apart from the accessibility, other elements of prime importance have been taken care of as well as weather conditions and charging queues to be analyzed by IoT-enabled AI software.

The road ahead

The next few years are significant to bring India to the world’s center stage, particularly in the automotive segment. Electric vehicles will pave the way toward this top position for the country. The future of transportation is electric, sustainable, renewable, cost-effective, and IoT-driven.

The Indian EV market is currently quite disintegrated and there are many standalone local players in the market. These local players need to collaborate with the larger players across the value chain to sustain in this highly growing market space in the long run. Their presence is important for larger companies as they provide cheap and readily available manpower. Although established players in the market are introducing their new models, new startups have taken the lead in this market. The startups are expanding their presence by raising funds from investors, tapping into new and unexplored cities with the rapid development of technology and engineering.

Author: Dr. Rishi Mohan Bhatnagar, President at Aeris Communications