Early July 2026 saw multiple e-rickshaws on the crowded streets of New Delhi come to an unexpected halt mid-ride, leaving drivers stranded and passengers confused. Videos of these incidents circulated widely on social media, sparking a national debate. The disruption was attributed not to mechanical failures but to software issues.

Chinese battery management applications—including BAT-BMS, Epoch Li-ion, and Lossigy—were reported to have been used to remotely disable the vehicles. This raised significant concerns over the security of connected electric vehicles (EVs) and the potential for Bluetooth-enabled tampering.

Requests for comment from the implicated app developers went unanswered. However, Indian official Krishnan confirmed that a government investigation had been launched. Authorities ordered the removal of at least three Chinese battery management apps from Indian app stores due to fears that connected EV systems could be exploited.

This incident occurs amid a delicate phase in India-China relations. Following years of tension triggered by deadly 2020 border clashes and India’s ban on Chinese apps such as WeChat and TikTok, both Delhi and Beijing have been cautiously working to restore economic engagement despite ongoing strategic mistrust.

Sources