Government Plans Unique 21-Digit ID for EV Battery Tracking

The Ministry of Road Transport has initiated a proposal for a new system aimed at identifying and tracking electric vehicle (EV) batteries across India. This new framework introduces a unique 21-digit identification number for every EV battery, to be known as the ‘Battery Pack Aadhaar Number’ (BPAN).

Mandatory Identification for EV Batteries

Under the proposed guidelines, it will be mandatory for all battery manufacturers and importers in the country to assign a 21-character BPAN to each battery pack. This requirement will apply to batteries sold in the market as well as those produced for the companies’ internal use. The BPAN is designed to be placed in a location on the battery where it cannot be erased, ensuring permanent identification. This unique number will enable comprehensive tracking of a battery’s entire journey, from its manufacturing to its eventual disposal or recycling.

Comprehensive Lifecycle Management and Future Expansion

A key feature of the BPAN system is its ability to monitor the complete lifecycle of a battery. This includes information regarding raw material mining, the manufacturing process, operational use, and final recycling. Should a battery undergo recycling or repurposing for alternative uses, a new BPAN will be issued to maintain transparency between its previous and new states. Initially, the government is prioritizing EV batteries due to their significant contribution, accounting for 80-90% of India’s total lithium-ion battery demand. However, the guidelines also suggest extending this regulation to industrial batteries with capacities exceeding 2 kWh. The implementation of the BPAN framework will be guided by the Automotive Industry Standard (AIS) route, with a dedicated committee comprising representatives from battery manufacturers, car companies, recyclers, and government agencies formed to ensure consistent technical application and adherence to rules. Additionally, the system will facilitate the identification of batteries suitable for a “second life” – those no longer optimal for vehicles (at 70-80% capacity) but still viable for applications like home inverters or solar power storage.