BS VII Draft Introduces Battery Durability Standards and Vehicle Passport System for Passenger Cars

The Centre has proposed new battery durability requirements for electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrids as part of the draft Bharat Stage VII (BS VII) norms released by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. These requirements stipulate that pure electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids must retain at least 75% of their original battery energy capacity within the first five years or 100,000 kilometers, whichever comes first. Following this period, a minimum retention of 67% will be mandated for up to eight years or 160,000 kilometers. Additionally, the draft introduces an ‘Environmental Vehicle Passport’ which will provide users with ongoing data regarding vehicle compliance, fuel consumption, battery health, and emissions.

For the average citizen, these proposed norms are significant as they enhance the assurance of battery performance over the lifespan of an electric vehicle, potentially leading to higher resale values and increased consumer confidence in EV technology. As battery longevity becomes a key selling point, the automotive market may experience shifts in demand towards vehicles meeting these durability standards. This development could influence consumer purchasing decisions, offsetting concerns regarding battery degradation and associated costs later in the vehicle’s lifecycle, thereby accelerating the transition to cleaner transportation options.

In the long term, these policies reflect the government’s commitment to environmental standards and sustainable transportation. The phased implementation—starting in 2029—allows manufacturers time to adapt and innovate, while also setting a clear trajectory toward stricter emissions controls and better vehicle performance metrics. To ensure compliance, the government and the RBI may need to focus on funding and incentives for both manufacturers and consumers, promoting research into advanced battery technologies and increasing the infrastructure needed to support the growing EV market.

Source: The Hindu

(Expert Note: This report was independently prepared by the Wealthova Economy team.)