Karnataka to Expand EV Charging Network on Highways

Karnataka is significantly boosting its electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure by planning to install charging points along major highways and toll plazas. The Energy Department, in collaboration with the state-owned Bangalore Electricity Supply Company (BESCOM), will set up charging stations on the Bengaluru-Belagavi National Highway (NH-48) and at 40 additional toll points across the state. This move is intended to establish an extensive EV corridor network, making long-distance travel in electric vehicles seamless and addressing 'range anxiety' for drivers.

BESCOM's Managing Director, Shivashankar N, stated that the company is committed to making electric mobility easy for all travelers in Karnataka. He highlighted that these stations, planned for highways, tourist spots, and public areas, will encourage the adoption of EVs and support the state's shift towards clean energy and sustainable tourism.

Karnataka is already a leader in India's public charging infrastructure, boasting 5,960 operational EV charging stations. The new toll-based network aims to bridge connectivity gaps between major cities and economic zones, making EV travel beyond city limits a practical option. BESCOM has previously launched India's first solar-powered EV hub with second-life batteries and the 'EV Mithra' app for locating chargers. The state's EV penetration rate stands at over 11%, higher than the national average of around 9%, aided by BESCOM's competitive charging tariffs.

The pilot initiative involves installing 30 EV charging stations on state highways and 20 on national highways, pending approvals from the Karnataka Road Development Corporation Board and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), respectively. The project also includes installing stations at tourist destinations like Mayura Hotels and prominent temples under the PM-E Drive initiative.

Impact This expansion is crucial for the growth of the electric vehicle ecosystem in India, encouraging EV adoption, benefiting auto manufacturers, charging infrastructure providers, and renewable energy companies. It will also support the state's tourism sector by making travel more convenient. Rating: 8/10

Difficult Terms: EV corridor: A route or network of roads equipped with frequent charging stations for electric vehicles, designed to facilitate long-distance electric travel. Range anxiety: The fear that an electric vehicle has insufficient range to reach its destination, leading drivers to worry about running out of battery power. E-mobility: The use of electric power for transportation, encompassing electric vehicles and their associated infrastructure. Second-life batteries: Used batteries from electric vehicles that are repurposed for less demanding applications, such as energy storage systems. EV penetration rate: The proportion of electric vehicles compared to the total number of vehicles in a given region or market. PM-E Drive initiative: A government initiative aimed at promoting electric mobility by supporting the development of charging infrastructure and the adoption of electric vehicles. Karnataka Road Development Corporation Board: A government board responsible for the development and maintenance of state highways in Karnataka. NHAI: National Highways Authority of India, a statutory body responsible for the development, maintenance, and management of National Highways in India.