Context:

• The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has approved an indigenously  EV charging standard ISI7017 (Part 2 / Sec 7): 2023.

What is ISI7017 (Part 2 / Sec 7): 2023?

• It is developed through collaboration among NITI Aayog, the Department of Science and Technology, electric two-wheeler maker Ather Energy.
• The indigenously developed EV charging standard is the first in the world that combines alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) for light electric vehicles (LEVs). 
• Although the new approved standard fixes the problem of different standards for AC and DC charging by creating a combined standard, it does not mandate EV makers to use a uniform standard which can help in faster adoption of EVs.

Why is a national EV charging standard needed for India?

• In India, EV makers are not mandated to follow a specific standard for charging connectors. 
  • For Example: Electric two-wheeler makers such as Ola Electric, Ather Energy, and Ultraviolette Automotive, all use different charging standards for their EVs.
• Thus, too many charging standards for EVs makes it difficult for public charging stations to cater to each individual type.

News Source: Indian Express