Government’s 360 kW Charging Infrastructure Push: Powering the Future of Heavy-Duty EVs

In a move to revolutionise electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure, the Indian government is planning to deploy high-capacity 360 kW DC chargers along highways, expressways, and state-run bus depots. This initiative is aimed at slashing the charging time for heavy-duty electric vehicles (HDVs) and compatible high-end electric cars like Jaguar and Mercedes to just 15 minutes.

Why 360 kW Chargers Matter

Currently, most public charging infrastructure in India consists of 60 kW DC fast chargers, which typically take nearly an hour for a full charge. However, the upcoming 360 kW charging stations are designed to:

• Significantly reduce charging duration
   
• Increase travel distance per charge
   
• Encourage the adoption of EVs among commercial fleet operators

A government official stated that a 15-minute charging time would be “acceptable” to consumers and necessary to support faster EV adoption across the country.

Read More: Government to Launch New EV Charging App with Real-Time Data and Payments.

Existing Infrastructure and Expansion Plans

As of March 31, 2025, India had 37,752 chargers across 29,277 locations. Under current deployment ratios, 60 kW chargers dominate urban centres, while 240 kW chargers are being positioned along major expressways.

Going forward, once necessary approvals are granted, the remaining network will include 360 kW chargers, especially catering to the needs of HDVs and premium EVs.

The Ministry of Power’s guidelines outline the minimum charger capacities:

• 12 kW for 2 and 3-wheelers
   
• 60 kW for 4-wheelers
   
• 240 kW for e-buses and e-trucks
   
• 360 kW exclusively for heavy-duty vehicles and compatible luxury EVs
   

PM E-Drive and Public Sector Support

The upcoming expansion forms part of the PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-Drive) scheme. This national programme seeks to establish a robust public charging ecosystem:

• 48,400 stations for two- and three-wheelers
   
• 22,100 stations for four-wheelers
   
• 1,800 stations for buses and trucks
   

A total investment of ₹2,000 crore is earmarked for this purpose.

Additionally, under the Bharat Urban Megabus Mission, the government intends to roll out 100,000 electric buses by 2030 with a projected investment of ₹1.75 trillion. The initial phase includes support for 14,028 e-buses under the PM E-Drive scheme.

Where Will 360 kW Chargers Be Installed?

These ultra-fast chargers are primarily being planned for:

• Bus depots managed by State Transport Undertakings (STUs)
   
• Key points along highways and expressways
   
• Locations frequented by premium EV users
   

Although affordable EVs may not yet be compatible with 360 kW chargers, luxury EVs and commercial HDVs such as e-trucks and e-buses can leverage this infrastructure to ensure swift turnaround and operational efficiency.

Challenges and the Road Ahead

Currently, HDVs make up less than 1 per cent of all vehicles in India. Only around 3,000–4,000 e-buses are operational under STUs. Despite the modest base, the infrastructure roll-out is forward-looking, aligning with anticipated EV growth.

Testing and certification of 360 kW chargers have already been completed, with implementation timelines dependent on HDV penetration and administrative clearances.

Conclusion

To meet its target of 30 per cent EV penetration by 2030, India requires not just policies and incentives but a supporting infrastructure backbone. According to EY India’s Power & Utilities leader, Somesh Kumar, this shift demands coordinated public-private collaboration, technological innovation, and user-centric infrastructure.

Enhanced EV features, shorter charging times, and reliability are essential to address evolving consumer expectations.

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