26 EV Fire Cases Reported in Last Three Years: MHI

The Ministry of Heavy Industry reported 26 fire incidents related to electric vehicles over three years, acknowledging a lack of a centralized database for battery fires. Between 2023 and 2025, 23,865 electric vehicle accidents were documented, with a minor number involving fires. Investigations led by expert committees have prompted updates to safety standards for traction batteries, effective since December 2022. The government remains committed to enhancing safety and regulation while promoting electric vehicle use, with no plans to halt their manufacturing.

26 EV Fire Cases Reported in Last Three Years: MHI

The Ministry of Heavy Industry (MHI) said 26 fire incidents involving electric vehicles were recorded in the last three years. The government has acknowledged incidents of fires in electric vehicles, while noting that there is no centralised database dedicated only to battery fires. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways uses the Electronic Detailed Accident Report (eDAR) portal to track road accidents.

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What is the current EV penetration rate in India?

As of FY 2024-25, India's electric vehicle penetration has reached 7.5%, marking a significant increase from previous years. This growth reflects a strong shift toward electric mobility, driven by government incentives and growing consumer acceptance. The penetration rate indicates the percentage of electric vehicles in overall vehicle registrations, highlighting the expanding market for EVs in India.

How has the FAME scheme influenced EV sales?

The Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles (FAME) scheme has played a crucial role in incentivizing EV purchases in India. Since its launch, over 18 lakh electric vehicles have received support under the FAME policy, significantly boosting sales and promoting infrastructure development. This government initiative aims to increase the adoption of electric vehicles through financial incentives and has directly contributed to the growth of the EV market.

What are the main challenges facing EV adoption in India?

The primary challenges hindering electric vehicle adoption in India include limited charging infrastructure, high upfront costs, and consumer concerns regarding battery safety and performance. Additionally, the availability of quality components and the need for widespread awareness about EV benefits are crucial for increasing market penetration. Addressing these issues is essential for fostering a robust electric mobility ecosystem in the country.

What role do government incentives play in EV manufacturing?

Government incentives, such as the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, are designed to boost domestic manufacturing of electric vehicles and components. These schemes encourage local production by providing financial support, thereby reducing import dependencies and fostering innovation in the EV sector. This strategic push helps create a sustainable ecosystem for electric mobility in India, essential for meeting future demand.

How many EVs were sold in FY25 and which segment led sales?

In FY25, India registered over 1.3 million electric vehicles, with the electric two-wheeler segment leading the sales at approximately 1.14 million units. This significant growth indicates a shift in consumer preferences towards electric mobility, largely driven by the affordability and practicality of electric two-wheelers in urban and rural settings.

According to information available on the portal, 23,865 accidents involving electric vehicles were recorded across states between 2023 and 2025. Out of these, 26 involved vehicle fires.
Year-wise, 5,594 such accidents were reported in 2023 with eight fire cases. In 2024, the number rose to 7,817 with nine fire incidents. In 2025, 10,454 accidents were recorded, again with nine instances of fire.

Expert committees formed

To examine the reasons behind these incidents, the ministry said an investigation team was formed with experts from the Defence Research and Development Organisation, the Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru and the Naval Science & Technological Laboratory, Visakhapatnam.

Changes to safety standards

Based on the recommendations, amendments were introduced to existing Automotive Industry Standards to define technical requirements for traction batteries used in electric vehicles across L, M and N categories. These amendments came into effect from 1 December 2022.

Conformity of production norms

A separate notification was also issued in December 2022 regarding Conformity of Production requirements. These apply to different categories of electric vehicles, including quadricycles, e-rickshaws, two-wheelers and four-wheelers.

No proposal to stop EV manufacturing

The government said it has no proposal to stop the manufacture or use of electric vehicles. The focus, it said, is on improving the safety system through testing standards and regulatory oversight while continuing efforts aimed at reducing fossil fuel dependence and cutting emissions.
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