Pune-based MIT-World Peace University (MIT-WPU) has unveiled its battery fabrication and research facility dedicated to lithium-ion (Li-ion) and sodium-ion (Na-ion) technologies. Marking a first-of-its-kind initiative by a private university in India, the facility aims to accelerate innovation in sustainable energy.

It will offer end-to-end capabilities for battery development – from the synthesis of active materials to coin cell fabrication and electrochemical performance evaluation. The research team at MIT-WPU is currently focused on improving battery efficiency by developing advanced electrode materials that enhance energy density, cycling stability and operational safety. The facility is also working on solid-state electrolytes (SSEs), particularly those with high ionic conductivity and thermal stability, which could provide a safer and more efficient alternative to traditional liquid-based battery systems.

In addition to mainstream research, the university is exploring innovative technologies such as glass-polymer composite electrolytes and paper-based batteries. Work has also begun on synthesising high-purity solvents and electrolytes for Li-ion batteries – a critical step toward supporting domestic battery manufacturers with quality raw materials.

Equipped with state-of-the-art instrumentation, the facility supports both academic research and collaborative industrial projects. Plans are underway to expand its capabilities to include the fabrication of cylindrical and prismatic cells, broadening its scope for diverse battery applications across sectors.

Prof. Dr Bharat Kale, Director of the Centre of Excellence in Materials Science at MIT-WPU and former Director of C-MET, MeitY, Government of India, said, “The launch of this state-of-the-art battery fabrication and research facility marks a major milestone in MIT-WPU’s commitment to advancing sustainable energy technologies. As the first such initiative by a private state university in India, it aligns with national missions like Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India, aiming to strengthen India’s energy independence. With end-to-end capabilities – from material synthesis to cell fabrication and electrochemical evaluation – we’re developing advanced electrode materials and solid-state electrolytes for safer, more efficient lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries and Lithium sulfur as well.  The group is also working on paper batteries in collaboration with MID Sweeden   This facility not only fosters academic and industry collaboration but also serves as a vital platform for training future talent. With greater support from national funding agencies like ANRF and others, private institutions like ours can significantly contribute to India’s clean energy future.”

Beyond research, the facility is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of engineers and scientists. It provides a hands-on learning environment for students and research opportunities for Ph.D. scholars in the field of advanced battery technologies.

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Bengaluru-based electric two-wheeler major Ather Energy has crossed the milestone of having over 400 Ather Grid fast charging points across Maharashtra.

With 64 Experience Centres and 42 Service Centres in Maharashtra, Ather Energy has cemented its position in over 37 cities in the state. Furthermore, to provide its customers access to fast charging, it’s Ather Grid network now extends to 35 cities across Maharashtra including Mumbai, Nashik, Pune and Nagpur. It has also strategically placed the fast chargers to connect significant routes such as Mumbai - Pune, Pune - Satara, Satara - Kolhapur, Sangali - Kolhapur and Pune - Panshet.

What’s interesting to note is that customers also have access to 220 fast charging points built on the LECCS (Light Electric Combined Charging System) standard, which has been developed by Ather and opened for industry-wide adoption.

LECCS allows different brands of light electric vehicles to use the same network. Ather Grid chargers are also visible on Google Maps, making it easy for any customer with a LECCS connector on their scooter to locate, navigate and charge, further enhancing the everyday ownership experience.

Ravneet Singh Phokela, Chief Business Officer, Ather Energy, said, “Maharashtra has been a strong market for us, and we’ve seen EV adoption here grow steadily over the years. As more people switch to electric, what really builds confidence is knowing that charging won’t be a challenge. However, for many potential buyers, charging continues to be one of the perceived barriers, and that’s something we’ve always worked towards solving. From the beginning, we’ve focused on building infrastructure that keeps pace with growing demand. Crossing 400 fast chargers in the state is a reflection of that effort. It’s about giving riders the assurance that they’ll always find a charger when they need one. As we expand our retail presence, the charging network will continue to grow in tandem to make EV ownership truly seamless.”

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eBikeGo, an Acer Official Licensee and one of India’s electric mobility leader, has opened its first Acer Electric Vehicles retail outlet in New Delhi’s Okhla Industrial Area (Phase 2). This marks the beginning of a nationwide expansion, with 15 flagship stores planned to showcase Acer-branded e-vehicles.

The store offers a premium range of e-bicycles, e-scooters and e-bikes, blending global design with rugged Indian road adaptability. Targeting urban commuters and eco-friendly riders, the lineup includes e-cycles starting at an introductory price of INR 35,999, with e-scooters and e-bikes arriving soon.

Hari Kiran, Co-Founder & COO, eBikeGo, said, “We at eBikeGo are elated to announce our significant expansion in 15 cities across PAN-India, which has been made possible within only a few months, based on our strategic approach of setting up Acer Electric Vehicles retail outlets across various states. This rapid expansion underscores our commitment to eco-friendly transportation while positioning eBikeGo as a pivotal player in the Indian EV market and promoting a green and sustainable future for all Indians. It also enables us to put the spotlight on eBikeGo’s brand new e-2Ws products’ lineup, including our e-cycles, e-scooters and e-bikes.

“The overwhelming response we have received for eBikeGo’s store expansion and the feedback we have received for Acer brand serves as a testament to the strong brand appeal and speaks volumes about our credibility. With our wide portfolio of reliable EVs tuned to the Indian roads and consumer requirements yet boasting world-class standards, we shall continue to expand and grow our retail store network furthermore across the nation.”

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BYD, a global leader in new energy vehicles (NEVs), celebrated the production of its 13-millionth NEV on 21 July 2025 at the company's Xiaomo Production Base in Shenzhen-Shanwei. The milestone vehicle, a YANGWANG U7, underscores BYD’s industry dominance.

The company maintained strong growth in the first half of 2025, with domestic sales surpassing 2.113 million units (up 31.5 percent year-on-year) and overseas deliveries reaching 472,000 units (a 128.5 percent surge). This performance solidified BYD’s position as the world’s top-selling NEV automaker and the first to achieve 13 million NEV productions.

The achievement reflects global consumer trust in BYD’s technology and quality. The success of its premium YANGWANG brand highlights Chinese automakers’ rising influence in the high-end EV market, showcasing China’s competitive edge in the new energy era.

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Bike Bazaar, a non-banking finance company focussing on new and used two-wheelers, has announced that it has inked a strategic partnership with E-Sprinto, an electric two-wheeler company.

Under the strategic partnership, Bike Bazaar aims to deploy 10,000 electric scooters from E-Sprinto for last-mile delivery segment in India.

Atul Gupta, Director, E-Sprinto, said, “This collaboration with Bike Bazaar is a strategic leap towards transforming last-mile delivery in India. At E-Sprinto, we are committed to building not just electric vehicles, but ecosystems that empower riders with dependable technology, minimal downtime, and sustainable performance. Our scooters are engineered to serve the real needs of India’s delivery economy – high mileage, robust build quality and low maintenance. Bike Bazaar shares our vision of creating value beyond just mobility—this event proves their commitment to rider safety and long-term engagement. We are proud to be partnering with a company that prioritizes its customers so holistically.”

Satbir Singh, Business Head – EV & New Business Initiatives, Bike Bazaar, said, “At Bike Bazaar, our riders are not just customers – they are the heart of everything we do. Today’s event is not only a celebration of their continued trust but a reaffirmation of our responsibility toward their safety and livelihood. We believe safety is not an optional feature—it’s a fundamental culture that must be embedded in every touchpoint. Our partnership with E-Sprinto is a step in this direction—together, we aim to deliver smarter, safer, and more reliable EV solutions tailored to the evolving needs of the gig economy. This is more than a fleet expansion—it’s a shared mission to lead the charge in responsible electric mobility.”

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