Bangalore Electricity Supply Company Limited (BESCOM) is aiming to establish electric vehicle fast charging stations at various toll plazas on NH-48 that is Bengaluru-Pune in Karnataka.
BESCOM has submitted a proposal to the NHAI or National Highways Authority of India to set up EV charging stations across 10 toll plazas. The plan is to provide accessible EV charging to travellers on NH-48.
Two 120 KW CCS2 EV fast chargers will be installed at each toll plaza at Belagavi, Chitradurga, Davanagere, Hiriyur, and Tumakuru, among others. After approval, the EV charging stations will be set up.
Toll plazas offer sufficient lighting and security, eliminating the need for drivers to charge their vehicles in isolated and poorly lit areas. This can help alleviate concerns about the limited range of EVs and reduce range anxiety among motorists.
While Bengaluru already has an adequate number of charging stations, the lack of charging infrastructure along highways remains a significant issue.
With most electric cars having a battery range of approximately 250-300km on a full charge, the presence of more charging stations along highways will encourage more people to transition to EVs. The tariff rates for AC charging are set at Rs 7.62 per kWh, while for DC charging, it is Rs 8.31 per kWh.
