UL Standards & Engagement, alongside partners including the U.S. Commercial Service, Bureau of Indian Standards, WRI India, NITI Aayog, and the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW). Recently, they organized a conference on constructing a resilient electric vehicle (EV) safety ecosystem in India.
UL Standards & Engagement Addressing EV Safety Challenges
The rapid growth of the EV market in India has raised concerns about safety, particularly after recent EV-related fires. The conference brought together stakeholders to propose strategies for establishing a safer, more secure, and sustainable EV ecosystem. Furthermore, Key challenges discussed included adapting EVs to tropical climates, developing infrastructure, and ensuring competence across the supply chain.
Global Best Practices and Research
The importance of adopting global best practices and investing in research and development to address these challenges effectively was emphasized. However, the conference underscored the need for a strong quality framework, building consumer confidence, and developing a skilled workforce in the EV industry.
Quotes from Key Figures
- Nitin Gadkari, Minister of Road Transport and Highways of India, emphasized the importance of supporting EV development and infrastructure for a sustainable future.
- Eric Garcetti, United States Ambassador to India, highlighted the commitment to addressing climate concerns and seeking partnerships in the global electric car sector.
- Sudhendu Sinha, Advisor – Infrastructure Connectivity – Transport & Electric Mobility, NITI Aayog, emphasized the importance of safety standards in fostering innovation and progress.
- David Steel, Executive Director of UL Standards & Engagement, emphasized the role of standards in creating a safe and sustainable EV ecosystem.
- Madhav Pai, CEO, WRI India, stressed the need for collaboration among government, industry, and academia to create a safe EV ecosystem.
- Durra Elmaki, Commercial Attaché, U.S. Commercial Service, expressed excitement about the conference’s potential to align perspectives on EV standards.
- Rishabh Jain, Senior Programmes Lead CEEW, highlighted the importance of a robust EV safety ecosystem and the need for collaboration between industry and government.
Promoting EV Safety
The conference aimed to promote EV safety and facilitate collaboration among stakeholders in India’s evolving EV industry.