India To Launch Battery Passport System For EVs: Know About 'Digital Identity Cards' That Will Transform Safety, Exports, More

India is set to implement a groundbreaking "Battery Passport" system that is likely to revolutionise the electric vehicle (EV) sector by providing comprehensive digital documentation for every EV battery throughout its operational life, according to a report by Times of India.

The system, currently being developed by NITI Aayog through collaborative discussions with various government ministries and departments, will create a complete digital record tracking batteries from manufacturing to disposal, including origin details, performance metrics, chemical composition, and recycling procedures.

Also read: Japan Targets $100-$400 Million Investment In India's EV Sector To Counter China's Supply Chain Dominance

Digital Identity Cards For Every Battery

Government officials have characterised the system as an "Aadhaar for batteries," where each power unit receives a distinct digital profile encoded within a QR code. This technology will enable instant access to critical battery information for consumers, regulatory authorities, and service technicians through simple scanning procedures.

The timing is strategic as India prepares to roll out its comprehensive battery swapping policy, making real-time battery data access essential for operational success.

Following EU's Regulatory Framework

Sources cited in the report indicate the Indian framework draws substantial influence from the European Union's (EU) Battery Regulation, which mandates battery passports for all EV and industrial batteries exceeding 2 kWh capacity starting February 2027.

The EU's comprehensive approach demands extensive documentation throughout the entire supply chain, spanning raw material extraction and manufacturing processes through vehicle assembly and final disposal procedures.

Strategic Objectives

India's battery passport initiative targets three primary goals: strengthening electric vehicle export capabilities, ensuring enhanced product safety standards, and elevating overall battery quality across the market.

"The move will help prevent unsafe practices such as combining cells of different vintages in the same module, which leads to performance imbalances and fire risks," a government source was quoted as saying by Times of India.

Transparency

The passport system addresses a critical consumer concern, considering batteries represent approximately 40 per cent of total EV costs. Enhanced transparency regarding battery longevity, production dates, and environmental impact will strengthen buyer confidence and accelerate electric mobility adoption.

India's Global Manufacturing Ambitions

This digital documentation system aligns with India's broader strategy to establish itself as a leading global EV manufacturing centre. The country has already attracted significant international investment through production-linked incentive schemes, positioning itself as an attractive export hub for major automotive players.

Rollout Strategy

Government officials anticipate releasing a preliminary framework document in the coming months, followed by a systematic implementation approach across different vehicle categories, beginning with two-wheelers, then expanding to three-wheelers and four-wheelers.

The phased rollout strategy will ensure smooth integration across India's diverse electric vehicle ecosystem while maintaining manufacturing momentum and export competitiveness.