The Central Government has directed Google and Apple to remove several Chinese battery management apps, including BAT-BMS, Lossigy and Epoch Li-ion, from their app stores after reports emerged that they were allegedly being misused to remotely disable e-rickshaws and other battery operated vehicles. Later reports said the action was expanded to cover seven battery management apps, including SMART BMS, following similar concerns.
What happened?
In recent days, videos from Delhi went viral on social media showing e-rickshaws suddenly stopping in the middle of busy roads. Investigations found that some people were allegedly using battery management system (BMS) apps to connect to nearby vehicles via Bluetooth and remotely switch off their batteries, turning the incidents into a dangerous prank.
Why are these apps a concern?
The apps were originally developed to monitor and manage lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles. However, authorities say they were allegedly misused to:
- Remotely shut down e-rickshaws.
- Disrupt traffic by stopping vehicles unexpectedly.
- Endanger drivers, passengers, and other road users.
- Raise serious cybersecurity and public safety concerns.
Government action
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has instructed Google and Apple to remove the identified apps from Android and iOS app stores in India. The government has also asked app stores to strengthen scrutiny of applications that could pose security or public safety risks.
Why this matters
India has seen rapid growth in the use of e-rickshaws for daily transport. The incident highlights a new cybersecurity challenge where smartphone apps can potentially interfere with connected vehicles. It has also raised concerns about weak security features, such as the lack of authentication in some battery management systems, prompting calls for better safeguards in electric vehicles.
