The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has made a significant advance in boosting local EV technology by launching a 30 kW Wide Band Gap (WBG) integrated drive system. This system aims to accelerate electric vehicle adoption in India. The 30 kW Wide Band Gap integrated drive system strengthens the domestic electric vehicle powertrain ecosystem and reduces reliance on imported high-performance components like semiconductor-based drive electronics. It was unveiled at the Indian Institute of Technology Madras in Chennai by MeitY Secretary S. Krishnan. This marks an important achievement in the government's efforts to promote self-reliance, innovation, and competitiveness in the quickly growing EV market.

This new system is a result of teamwork involving the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), Thiruvananthapuram, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, and leading automotive partner Lucas TVS. The system integrates the electric motor and inverter into a single, compact unit with high power density. This differs from traditional designs where motors and drive electronics are separate. This change allows for more efficient packaging and better overall performance. The initiative closely supports the national Make in India EV innovation agenda and aims to boost local powertrain production while reducing costs through domestic manufacturing.

A Strategic Step Toward Reducing Import Dependence and Cost

The integrated drive system targets India’s growing electric passenger vehicle segment, particularly compact cars and fleet mobility platforms, which are essential for the country’s shift to cleaner transportation. Historically, a lot of high-performance EV powertrain technology and key semiconductor components have come from abroad. This has caused supply chain issues and left manufacturers vulnerable to global market changes. By developing this system locally, the government plans to significantly reduce import dependence and build a more stable, self-sufficient EV supply ecosystem.

Beyond cost savings from local production, the design of the integrated drive solution provides clear engineering benefits. Combining the motor and inverter into one unit increases power density while lowering overall size and weight. These benefits lead to better vehicle efficiency and simpler integration. Industry experts believe such innovations can help make EVs more appealing and affordable for Indian consumers, especially as the country works to increase EV use in urban and semi-urban areas.

Supporting Local Manufacturing and MSME Growth

Officials involved in the launch stressed that the drive system’s commercialization could boost activity in India’s manufacturing sector, especially among micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) that work in power electronics, thermal management systems, and control hardware. The rollout is expected to open opportunities for local producers to expand their offerings and take a more active role in the EV value chain. By aligning with Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) programs and other government initiatives, this plan could also create jobs and foster a broader ecosystem of component manufacturers and tech startups.

Advancing Strategic Electronics and Innovation Collaboration

MeitY leaders emphasized that this development is part of a larger national mission to strengthen capabilities in power electronics and strategic technologies. By promoting collaboration among government research institutions, academia, and industry partners, the project shows how public-private cooperation can drive technological advancement. Secretary S. Krishnan noted that this effort reflects the government’s commitment to transforming India from a nation that imports technology to one that develops and exports it, in line with the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and global competitiveness in emerging mobility technologies.

Readiness for Commercial Deployment and Future Outlook

According to official sources, the 30 kW integrated drive system has successfully passed design, fabrication, and validation stages with industry partners. It is now ready for commercialization and large-scale deployment. This readiness represents a significant step toward incorporating locally developed power electronics into mainstream EV production. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, innovations like this not only enhance India’s supply chain but also position the country better to export advanced EV technologies to global markets.