So far, in the absence of a harmonised standard, independent businesses who wanted to set up charging stations have been unsure as to for which EV maker the charging infrastructure must be set up
Ather Energy, a prominent electric two-wheeler manufacturer in India, has expressed its willingness to offer assistance, free of charge, to other players in the electric vehicle (EV) sector to adopt its standardised charging connector. Recognised by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), Ather's charging connector has been designated as the standard for light electric vehicles, including electric two- and three-wheelers, along with microcars.
Ravneet S. Phokela, Chief Business Officer of Ather Energy, stated that the company is actively engaging with various Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) to facilitate the swift adoption of its charging connector. Ather is prepared to share its intellectual property and collaborate with other manufacturers by providing support from its engineers to streamline the adoption process.
Phokela emphasised that Ather is not seeking financial gains from this collaboration, adopting a collaborative approach on charging infrastructure while maintaining a competitive stance on vehicle development. He underscored the importance of harmonising charging infrastructure across the industry, facilitating the creation of a standardised charging solution that benefits multiple players.
The charging connector's recognition as a standard by the BIS does not mandate OEMs to adopt it; rather, it offers flexibility based on compatibility. Phokela highlighted that standardising the charging infrastructure promotes harmonisation and incentivizes independent businesses to establish charging stations, addressing concerns such as range anxiety for electric vehicle users.
Ather Energy aims to expand its charging network significantly, targeting 2,500 charging stations by March 2024, up from the current 1,600. The company is actively in discussions with other manufacturers to encourage the broader adoption of its charging connector, contributing to the growth and standardisation of electric mobility infrastructure in India.