The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) is set to introduce stringent safety standards for electric construction vehicles as part of India’s green transition. Starting October 1, 2024, all-electric construction equipment, including dumpers and excavators, must comply with new safety regulations outlined in the draft amendment to the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989. This amendment, published on August 14, proposes the introduction of rule 125-O, which mandates adherence to Automotive Industry Standards (AIS)-174, covering battery safety, electrical systems, and overall vehicle construction.
The new safety regulations are part of the government’s broader push for electric vehicles (EVs) across various sectors, with the potential inclusion of electric construction equipment in the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid &) Electric Vehicles in India-III scheme, which provides subsidies for EVs. These regulations aim to ensure the safety of workers and the public as the electric construction vehicle market begins to grow.
Manufacturers will need to meet these safety requirements to qualify for government subsidies, which are designed to promote the safe and sustainable adoption of electric construction equipment. According to MoRTH’s Vahan data, over 51,000 construction equipment vehicles were sold in 2024, but only one was electric, highlighting the nascent stage of this market.
Experts in the sector have underscored the importance of implementing AIS-174 to prioritize safety on construction sites, noting that manufacturers will need to make significant investments to meet these new standards. These regulations are expected to not only enhance safety but also reduce emissions and noise pollution, contributing to more environmentally friendly construction practices.