BIS is a member of the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), which is the global body that is developing reference standards to ensure interoperability and minimize trade barriers for electric vehicles and their components. While Indian standards for electric vehicle charging are compliant with global standards, local climate considerations and the difference in vehicle types available in the country necessitate modifications that are specifically applicable to India.
IS 17017 is the key electric vehicle charging standard in India comprising three parts and six sections. IS-17017- Part-1 provides the basic features of all electric vehicle charging systems. An AC EVSE must adhere to this standard, and specific AC connector standard in the IS-17017-Part-2. Both AC and DC EVSE need to conform to the technical standards IS-17017-Parts 21 & 22. Additional Indian standards for AC EVSEs have been approved for light electric vehicles and e-cars (in the form of low-cost charging points), for use in parking areas.
IS-17017-Part-23 describes the requirements for DC charging stations, with power output of 50kW to 200kW. Beyond this, high power charging standards are required to cater to buses and other heavy vehicles. Recently, the BIS has finalized the IS-17017-Part-25, which is specifically for providing low DC power of less than 7kW for light EVs. Due to the requirement of digital communications between the DC EVSE and the EV, data communication standards are specified in IS-17017-Part 24. When the Combined Charging System (CCS) standard is deployed, which can provide both AC and DC charging, communications will be as per the IS-15118 series.
Separate projects have been initiated for battery swapping standards for LEVs and buses. They will be two series of standards documents, covering the form factor of the battery pack, inter-operable connection systems, communication between the battery management system (BMS) and the EV and charging station, and network management. Any electric vehicle may utilize a battery pack conforming to these standards. The removable battery packs can be charged using AC or DC charging systems. The BIS is yet to develop Indian standards for EV roaming and grid-related management functions.
