In October 2024, the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), under its EV mission, initiated a dedicated funding program supporting technology development in three verticals – Tropical EV batteries and cells; power electronics, machines and drives; and EV charging infrastructure. The EV mission was proposed based on recommendations by the Department of Science & Technology and the office of the Principal Scientific Advisor.

The Tropical EV Battery whitepaper was co-authored by CSE. It involved engagement with a wide spectrum of industry stakeholders and sector experts which enabled collective assessment of the potential for a national battery development program.

The whitepaper is designed as a proposal and a roadmap for a focused development program that builds competence and capacity to solve problems specific to India. It includes discussion on battery cell technology, cell components, battery safety, standards and battery recycling. 

It identifies the critical pathways for the R&D ecosystem and a strategy for aligned action by diverse technical bodies, research laboratories, and industry partners.