NPCI Unified EV Platform to Let Users Discover Chargers, Book Slots & Make Payments by Integrating Apps and Charging Stations
In a major step towards boosting India’s electric mobility ecosystem, the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) is working on a national unified hub for EV charging. The initiative aims to simplify the charging experience by enabling users to locate chargers, book slots, and make payments seamlessly, according to senior government officials.
Hanif Qureshi, Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Heavy Industries, confirmed that the ministry is in the final stages of seeking approvals for the project. Speaking at the annual convention of the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), Qureshi highlighted that the current charging infrastructure is fragmented, with over 103 different apps created by OEMs and charge point operators.
“NPCI has created a framework for a national unified hub. This platform will act as an interface to onboard chargers from different manufacturers and operators, ensuring a smooth experience for EV customers,” Qureshi said.
Three Key Functions of the Unified Hub
The upcoming platform will integrate three critical functions for EV users:
- Charger discovery – allowing drivers to easily locate nearby charging points.
- Slot booking – enabling advance reservations for charging.
- Seamless payments – offering a standardized digital transaction system.
- Officials believe that once approvals are secured, the initiative will significantly reduce range anxiety, one of the biggest concerns for EV adoption in India.
Government Plans Safety Standards for E-Rickshaws
Alongside efforts to strengthen EV infrastructure, the government is also focusing on road safety measures. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, while addressing the 7th Edition of the FICCI Road Safety Awards and Symposium, announced that the government is considering introducing safety standards for e-rickshaws, similar to the crash test protocols under Bharat NCAP.
Gadkari emphasized the urgency of these measures, pointing out that India witnesses nearly five lakh road accidents annually, leading to around 1.8 lakh deaths. He reiterated that road safety remains a top priority for the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
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Boost for India’s EV Ecosystem
Industry experts believe the NPCI’s unified EV charging platform will play a crucial role in accelerating EV adoption, while new safety norms for e-rickshaws will improve public trust in electric mobility solutions. Together, these initiatives are expected to strengthen India’s push towards cleaner, safer, and sustainable transportation.
