Copyright infringement not intended

Picture Courtesy: promfgmedia.com

The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) was set up under the ANRF Act, 2023, to boost research and innovation across the country.

The ANRF operates under the Ministry of Science and Technology and aims to bridge the gap between academic research (done in universities) and industrial applications (used by companies).

In October 2024, the ANRF launched the Mission for Advancement in High-Impact Areas - Electric Vehicle (MAHA-EV), to develop advanced technologies for electric vehicles (EVs) to make India self-reliant, reduce dependence on imports, and promote a greener, sustainable future.

MAHA-EV initiative aligns with the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) vision and the goal of achieving a Viksit Bharat (developed India) by 2047.

Recent Development

The ANRF announced that it has selected seven high-impact projects, called e-Nodes, to support under the MAHA-EV Mission. These e-Nodes are specialized research groups that will work on solving critical challenges in India’s EV ecosystem.  

Each e-Node is like a team of experts from academic institutions (like IITs), research labs, and industries working together in a consortia mode (a collaborative model). This teamwork ensures that the research is not just theoretical but can be practically applied in the EV industry.

What Are the Focus Areas of the MAHA-EV Mission?

The MAHA-EV Mission targets three key technology verticals (specific areas of EV technology) to strengthen India’s EV sector.

Tropical EV Batteries and Battery Cells (TV-I):

• This focuses on designing batteries suited for India’s hot and humid climate. Tropical batteries need to perform well in high temperatures and last longer.
• Two of the seven e-Nodes will work in this area to develop advanced battery technologies, reducing India’s dependence on imported batteries.

Power Electronics, Machines, and Drives (PEMD) (TV-II):

• This area deals with the electrical systems that power EVs, like motors, controllers, and converters. These components ensure EVs run efficiently and smoothly.
• Three e-Nodes will focus on creating innovative PEMD technologies to make EVs more powerful and energy-efficient.

EV Charging Infrastructure (TV-III):

• This focuses on building faster, smarter, and more accessible charging stations across India. Without enough charging stations, EVs won’t be practical for widespread use.
• Two e-Nodes will work on improving charging technology to support India’s shift to electric mobility.

These verticals cover the core components of EVs, from power sources to infrastructure, which ensure a complete EV ecosystem.

Bigger Picture

The MAHA-EV Mission is part of the ANRF’s broader Advancement in High-Impact Areas (MAHA) program, which tackles critical scientific challenges in areas like EVs, renewable energy, and healthcare. The mission aligns with National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP) 2020, which aims to reduce fossil fuel use through EVs.

Must Read Articles: 

ELECTRIC VEHICLES

Source: 

PIB