An Overview of Battery Technology Advancements in Electric Vehicles
- Neuron Energy
- Aug 8
- 5 min read
Updated: Aug 16
The electric vehicle (EV) market in India is experiencing remarkable growth. From e-rickshaws to premium electric cars produced by major brands like Tata and Mahindra, as well as international companies such as Tesla and BYD, the adoption of EVs is accelerating significantly. An increasing number of consumers are opting for electric vehicles over traditional petrol, diesel, or CNG-powered alternatives, driven by rising fuel costs, heightened environmental awareness, and advancements in EV infrastructure.
The Indian government is significantly advancing the transition to electric mobility in response to environmental challenges and the accelerating depletion of fossil fuel reserves. To promote the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), the government has implemented a range of initiatives, including the introduction of subsidy schemes under the FAME (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles) program. These initiatives offer tax incentives, reduce registration fees, and establish an extensive network of charging stations throughout the country.
These initiatives are designed not only to mitigate pollution but also to enhance India's energy self-sufficiency. The government envisions a sustainable and cleaner future, with electric vehicles (EVs) playing a pivotal role in realizing this vision. With supportive policies and increasing consumer interest, India is poised to become one of the largest electric vehicle markets globally.
Reasons the Government is Focusing on Electric Vehicles
India is rapidly shifting gears toward an electric mobility revolution. With environmental concerns mounting and the need for energy security growing more urgent, electric vehicles (EVs) are emerging as a key pillar in India’s transportation and industrial policy. Here are the core reasons behind the government’s strong push toward EV adoption:
Clearing the Air: Electric Vehicles as a Tool Against Pollution
One of the primary catalysts for India's commitment to electric vehicles (EVs) is the urgent need to combat air pollution. Major Indian cities consistently rank among the most polluted in the world, with smog and particulate matter presenting significant health risks to millions of residents.
Kicking the Oil Habit: Electric Vehicles for Energy
Independence
Another crucial aspect of India's EV initiative is the nation's reliance on imported fossil fuels, particularly oil, to satisfy its transportation demands. This dependence on external sources subjects India to volatile price fluctuations and potential supply disruptions.
Revving Up Innovation: Make in India Meets Electric Vehicles
The Indian government's focus on electric vehicles extends beyond environmental and energy considerations. It is also viewed as a strategic opportunity to enhance domestic manufacturing under the "Make in India" initiative. This ambitious program aims to establish India as a global manufacturing hub, fostering innovation and economic growth.
EV Industry Growth in India: Surging Ahead in 2024
The future of mobility is electric, and India is actively embracing the e-mobility revolution. As of 2024, the country boasts more than 5.6 million registered electric vehicles (EVs), encompassing a diverse range of two-wheelers, three-wheelers, passenger cars, and commercial vehicles.
One of the most significant milestones has been the record-breaking electric vehicle (EV) sales in calendar year 2024, which surpassed 2 million units for the first time—a substantial increase from approximately 1.6 million units in 2023, reflecting a remarkable 24% year-on-year growth. This surge can be attributed to a combination of government incentives, rising fuel prices, enhanced EV models, and increasing environmental awareness among consumers.
EV penetration in the overall automobile market reached 8% in 2024, up from 6.8% in 2023.
Electric two-wheelers constituted the largest segment, accounting for nearly 60% of total EV sales.
Electric three-wheelers also experienced significant growth, driven by demand in last-mile delivery and ride-hailing services.
Passenger electric cars saw substantial double-digit growth, with manufacturers such as Tata Motors, MG, and Hyundai broadening their EV portfolios.
Furthermore, the total number of public EV charging stations in India increased to over 12,000 locations in 2024, up from just over 5,000 in 2022, significantly enhancing the convenience of EV ownership.
This momentum underscores India's growing commitment to clean mobility, bolstered by robust policy initiatives and heightened participation from the private sector. With projections indicating that EV sales could reach 10 million units annually by 2030, the Indian EV industry is poised to become one of the largest in the world.
As we've seen, the Indian Electric Vehicle (EV) sector is booming, with record-breaking sales and widespread adoption across the country. But alongside this e-mobility surge, another critical industry is witnessing rapid growth—the Indian EV Battery Sector. Batteries are the heart of any electric vehicle, and as EV demand rises, so does the need for high-performance, cost-effective, and locally manufactured battery solutions.
The Role of Battery Technology in EVs
Battery technology has a direct impact on performance, cost, charging time, and range. India wants to have a large number of EVs on the road by 2030, thus attention is now being paid to developing safer, smarter, and more sustainable battery systems.
Key Battery Technologies Powering EVs Today
EVs are powered by a range of battery chemistries. Here's a breakdown of the most relevant ones:
Lithium-Ion (Li-ion): | The industry standard — known for its high energy density, long life, and reliability. |
Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP): | Gaining popularity in India due to its safety profile, thermal stability, and long cycle life — ideal for fleet applications. |
Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC): | Offers high performance and energy density, often used in premium EVs and commercial vehicles. |
Solid-State Batteries (Future Focus): | Currently under development, these promise even greater safety and capacity, with no liquid electrolyte. |
India’s Growing Lithium-Ion Battery Market
The market for lithium-ion batteries in India is anticipated to increase from USD 2.5 billion in 2023 to USD 5 billion by 2028. This increase is being accelerated by government incentives like the FAME II scheme and growing demand for EVs in both urban and rural areas. At the same time, regional producers are concentrating on battery intelligence, temperature management, and modular pack designs that are suited to Indian conditions.
India’s Leading Lithium-Ion Battery Manufacturers
India’s EV battery ecosystem includes a mix of large-scale players and high-growth innovators. Here's a snapshot of the top contributors:
Exide Industries (Nexcharge JV): | A legacy brand diversifying into EV batteries and energy storage systems via its joint venture with Leclanché SA. |
Amara Raja Batteries: | Investing in lithium-ion cell development, R&D hubs, and giga-scale manufacturing facilities for the future of mobility. |
Neuron Energy: | A fast-scaling lithium-ion battery manufacturer offering smart, AIS-156-compliant battery packs for 2W, 3W, drones, and commercial vehicles. With its unique edge in Bluetooth-enabled Smart BMS, remote repairability, and nationwide service, Neuron is becoming a trusted partner for OEMs and fleet operators alike. |
Together, these companies are helping shape India’s battery innovation roadmap — each with a unique focus and footprint.
Challenges & Innovations in Battery Manufacturing
Despite momentum, the industry faces certain headwinds:
Heavy dependence on imported raw materials
Variability in climate and road conditions
The need for robust thermal management
Recycling and second-life battery use
However, companies are rising to the occasion with:
Localized supply chains
Advanced cell chemistries (LFP/NMC)
Battery packs tailored for Indian usage
Digitalized fleet diagnostics and BMS analytics
Conclusion
Battery technology is the foundation of India's promising EV future. Indian producers are embracing innovation at every stage in response to the growing need for batteries that are safer, smarter, and more economical. The competition to power electric generation is ongoing and is getting more intense, with goals ranging from increasing energy density and affordability to improving safety and service turnaround.
FAQs: EV Battery Technology in India
1. What is the most commonly used battery in EVs?
Lithium-ion batteries (especially LFP and NMC chemistries) are currently the most widely used due to their efficiency and safety.
2. How long does a lithium-ion EV battery last?
Typically 8–10 years or up to 200,000 km, depending on usage patterns and charging cycles.
3. Are EV batteries in India reliable?
Yes. Most established Indian manufacturers follow global safety standards like AIS-156 and use A-grade cells with smart BMS.
4. How is India reducing battery import dependence?
By investing in domestic mining, PLI schemes, and battery gigafactories aimed at localizing production.
5. What happens to batteries after their life cycle ends?
They are recycled or repurposed for use in Energy Storage Systems (ESS), solar backup, or industrial applications.