The Indian central government ordered the removal of Chinese battery-management mobile applications allegedly used to remotely disable e-rickshaws in Delhi [1], [2], [3].
This directive targets software capable of shutting down vehicles remotely, which officials said poses a significant security and public-safety risk to commuters and drivers in the capital. The ability to manipulate vehicle power systems from a distance creates vulnerabilities that could be exploited for malicious purposes.
Government officials instructed the Google Play Store and Apple App Store to pull the applications from their platforms [1], [2], [3]. Reports indicate the apps were being misused to hack and stop e-rickshaws, effectively freezing transportation for users [1], [2], [3].
There are conflicting reports regarding the exact number of applications targeted. Some reports state two applications, BAT BMS and Epoch Li-ion, were ordered removed [1]. Other reports identify three applications: BAT-BMS, Lossigy, and Epoch-i-ion [2], [3].
Battery-management systems are designed to monitor the health and efficiency of lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles. However, the integration of these systems with mobile applications allows for remote oversight that, if compromised, grants external control over the vehicle's operational status [2], [3].
This move follows a pattern of the Indian government restricting Chinese software based on national security concerns. By removing these tools from the primary app stores, the government aims to prevent further unauthorized access to the city's electric transport infrastructure [1], [2].
“The apps were being misused to hack and shut down e-rickshaws.”
This action highlights the growing intersection of cybersecurity and urban infrastructure. As India aggressively transitions to electric mobility, the reliance on foreign-developed software for critical vehicle components like battery management introduces systemic risks. The government's decision to intervene via app store removals suggests a strategy of mitigating digital vulnerabilities to ensure the physical safety of public transport.
