Minister Joshi Lays Foundation for EV Battery Testing Facility in Bengaluru, Plans Expansion
Bengaluru, EXPRESS News: In a significant move to bolster the electric vehicle (EV) industry in India, the National Test House (NTH) is preparing to set up EV battery charger and testing facilities in Mumbai and Kolkata, mirroring the successful model already established in Bengaluru. This announcement was made by Union Minister Pralhad Joshi during the foundation-laying ceremony for an EV battery and charger testing unit at the NTH-RRSL campus in Jakkur, Bengaluru.
Minister Joshi emphasized the central government’s commitment to fostering the EV industry, highlighting the establishment of a dedicated sector for EV battery and charger manufacturing. He stated that India is making remarkable progress in driving sustainable and innovative changes within the EV sector.
“South India, particularly Bengaluru, is witnessing rapid growth in the EV industry, and we are prioritizing the development of the EV battery and charger manufacturing sector to support this expansion,” Joshi said.
The new EV charger and testing unit will enable critical testing to be conducted locally, reducing reliance on foreign facilities. Joshi also underlined the role of EVs in several key infrastructure projects, including the Pamban Bridge, Metro Rail, Bullet Train, Jal Jeevan Mission, and drone certification.
The minister highlighted the increasing demand for Indian-made products in the international market, noting that Indian manufacturers are meeting global standards, making their products highly competitive for export.
500 GW Power Generation Target: Minister Joshi further revealed India’s ambitious target of generating 500 GW of power by 2030, aiming to become the world’s third-largest economy.
He described the establishment of a government-sector EV battery testing facility as a significant milestone, indicating its importance for the future.
The event was attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, including the Additional Secretary and Joint Secretary, along with the Director General of NTH and key industry leaders from the EV battery and charger manufacturing sector.