Government Orders Google & Apple To Remove 7 E-Rickshaw Battery Apps Over Remote Shutdown Risk

The Central Government has directed Google and Apple to remove seven battery management applications from their respective app stores after concerns emerged that these apps were allegedly being misused to remotely disable e-rickshaws and other battery-operated electric vehicles.

The action, initiated by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), comes after several viral videos showed e-rickshaws unexpectedly shutting down through Bluetooth-connected battery management systems, leaving drivers stranded and affecting their daily livelihoods.

Why Did The Government Take Action?

According to government sources, the battery management applications were originally designed to help users monitor important battery information such as charging status, voltage, temperature, current flow, and overall battery health.

However, officials found that certain poorly secured battery systems could allow these apps to remotely control battery discharge through Bluetooth connectivity. This means an individual with access to the application could potentially switch off the battery remotely, instantly disabling the vehicle.

Considering the safety risks and financial impact on thousands of e-rickshaw drivers, the government decided to intervene.

Which Apps Have Been Targeted?

The Centre has instructed both Google Play Store and Apple App Store to remove seven battery management applications.

Some of the major apps include:

• BAT-BMS
• SMART BMS
• LOSSIGY
• Epoch-i-ion
• Other similar battery management applications

Officials have also warned that any additional applications found enabling remote interference with electric vehicle batteries could face similar action in the future.

How Do Battery Management System (BMS) Apps Work?

Battery Management System (BMS) applications are commonly used by electric vehicle owners and manufacturers to monitor battery performance.

These applications typically allow users to:

• Monitor battery voltage
• Check charging and discharging status
• View battery temperature
• Track battery health
• Monitor current flow
• Diagnose battery issues

Most of these features are useful for maintaining battery efficiency. However, experts say that inadequate security measures can expose these systems to misuse.

What Is The Security Concern?

The primary concern revolves around Bluetooth connectivity.

Many low-cost battery packs reportedly lack proper password protection or authentication mechanisms. This allows unauthorized users to connect to the battery management interface and manipulate battery functions.

Instead of merely monitoring battery performance, malicious users may gain the ability to:

• Stop battery discharge remotely
• Disable electric vehicles
• Interrupt ongoing journeys
• Affect public safety
• Cause financial losses to drivers

This vulnerability is considered especially serious for commercial e-rickshaw operators who rely entirely on their vehicles for daily income.

Viral Videos Triggered Government Investigation

The issue gained nationwide attention after several videos surfaced on social media showing e-rickshaws suddenly stopping while on the road.

Many drivers claimed their vehicles had been remotely disabled without warning, forcing them to remain stranded for hours.

These incidents raised serious concerns about cybersecurity vulnerabilities in connected electric vehicle systems and prompted authorities to investigate the applications involved.

MeitY's Response

MeitY Secretary S. Krishnan confirmed that the matter had come under the government's attention.

He stated that some battery management applications had already been removed from app stores and assured that the government would continue working closely with app marketplaces to identify and remove applications that could pose risks to public safety.

The ministry has also instructed app platforms to strengthen their due diligence process before approving connected-device applications.

Impact On E-Rickshaw Drivers

The decision has significant implications for India's rapidly growing electric mobility sector.

Thousands of e-rickshaw drivers operate rented vehicles and depend entirely on daily earnings to support their families.

If vehicles can be remotely disabled without authorization, drivers may face:

• Loss of income
• Passenger inconvenience
• Safety risks during operation
• Increased distrust in EV technology
• Operational disruptions

Industry experts believe stronger cybersecurity standards for electric vehicle battery systems are now essential.

Part Of India's Broader Digital Security Drive

The latest action is also being viewed as part of the government's broader effort to improve digital security.

Since 2020, India has banned hundreds of applications linked to national security concerns, financial fraud, and data privacy violations.

While previous actions primarily focused on user data and cybersecurity, this case highlights an entirely new category of risk—applications capable of affecting physical infrastructure and public transportation through connected devices.

What's Next?

Government officials have indicated that additional battery management applications are currently under review.

If further security vulnerabilities are discovered, more apps could be removed from digital marketplaces in the coming weeks.

Meanwhile, manufacturers of battery-operated vehicles may also be required to improve Bluetooth authentication systems and strengthen cybersecurity measures to prevent unauthorized remote access.

Conclusion

The Centre's decision to direct Google and Apple to remove seven battery management apps reflects growing concerns over connected-device security in India's expanding electric vehicle ecosystem. While BMS applications play an important role in monitoring battery performance, weak security features can potentially expose vehicles to remote interference.

As India continues to embrace electric mobility, ensuring secure software, protected Bluetooth connectivity, and stronger cybersecurity standards will become increasingly important to safeguard both public safety and the livelihoods of millions of EV users.