Express press service

HYDERABAD: As part of the Centre’s battery swapping policy, Hyderabad will soon have electric vehicle battery swapping stations in four different corners for the benefit of eco-friendly vehicle users. This is the first time that Hyderabad will have battery swap stations, which will help vehicle users to replace their discharged batteries with charged ones.

The initial cost of setting up this battery swap system is high as it involves machines to swap the battery and a large number of expensive batteries for the necessary operation. This more or less works how LPG refill cylinders are ordered.

After delivering a full bottle, the deliverer will take back the empty bottle. The only difference is that, in the case of electric vehicles, you have to go to the exchange stations to obtain a charged battery after returning the used one.

According to the Telangana State Renewable Energy Development Corporation, the nodal agency responsible for implementing the electric vehicle infrastructure plans, at least six stations are planned covering the east, west, north and south of ‘Hyderabad.

Interchangeable battery stations to increase

Talk to The new Indian ExpressTSREDCO Vice President and General Manager N Janaiah said battery swap stations will definitely work as many companies are developing this technology for two-wheelers and three-wheelers.

“Interchangeable batteries are suitable for electric scooters and auto rickshaws. Depending on the volume of electric vehicles and their demand, we will increase the battery exchange stations. We are in the process of procuring interchangeable batteries which cost between Rs 40,000 and 50,000 each.” said Janaiah.

The Center offers a battery swap policy to make electric vehicles more viable for users. In this framework, the government will encourage private actors to develop sustainable batteries for battery exchange.