Over the increasing concerns about EVs catching on fire, the Centre sent show-cause notices to Okinawa, Ola Electric, and Pure EV. They were warned by the Centre asking why they should not face criminal prosecution for selling faulty electric vehicles.
According to sources, electric vehicle manufacturers were given an extended period of time until July to respond to the notices. Once they do so, the government will determine what type of penal action must be taken against them, if necessary. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways awaits responses from EV manufacturers regarding the incidents.
After electric scooters manufactured by Pure EV and Boom Motors were involved in an April fire accident, the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA), sent notices to Boom Motors and Pure EV last month. According to preliminary government findings, all EVs that caught on fire had their battery cells and design flaws.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation, which was tasked with investigating EV fires, also found similar issues. The DRDO probe found that the batteries used in Ola Electric, Jitendra Electric Vehicles, Boom Motors, Okinawa Autotech and Pure EV were made of lower-grade materials to reduce costs.
Nitin Gadkari (Union Minister for Road Transport) had previously warned EV manufacturers of strict actions as well as possible penalties if they were found negligent. If these are not followed, recalls for all defective vehicles will be ordered.
