A number of users have taken up to social media platforms asking for the ban of a Chinese battery management app that can be used to connect with Lithium ion batteries of e-rickshaws. The app went viral after content creators released a number of videos displaying how they were able to stop e-rickshaws in the middle of the road using the app. However, these videos have led to backlash on the internet after e-rickshaw owners stated their helplessness after being impacted by unknown pranksters who could control their vehicles from 15 metres away.
What is the Chinese App Used to Control E-Rickshaws
The BAT-BMS app, which was created by a Chinese developer Shenzhen Grenergy Technology, is a Bluetooth app for smart lithium battery BMS in e-rickshaws, scooters and EVs. It works on the principle of BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy), meant for Smart Bluetooth lithium batteries and it lets uses wirelessly connect to a supported battery to monitors stats such as SOC, voltage, temperature, current, and cycle life among others, and lets owners control the charge or discharge functions on compatible batteries. It is also capable of remotely cutting power within a 15m Bluetooth range. It was created as a legit tool for owners; however, the reels exposed a security gap in unsecured BMS units, which were misused by pranksters.
“Shame on this generation. A Chinese app BAT-BMS misused for allegedly remotely stopping e-rickshaws. Behind every remotely stopped e-rickshaws is a hardworking driver left helpless in the middle of the road,” said a comment condemning the misuse of the app. “Yesterday, I witnessed a terrifying scene – an e-rickshaw suddenly stopped dead in the middle of the road without any warning. A car behind it couldn’t brake in time and crashed into it. Thankfully, no one died, but the driver and passengers could have been seriously injured. This wasn’t a mechanical failure or driver mistake. It was deliberately caused by some irresponsible people using apps like BAT-BMS, LOSSIGY, JK BMS, SMART BMS, and similar tools (Daly, JBD/Xiaoxiang, ANT BMS etc.) to remotely switch off the battery via Bluetooth,” says a comment by Tanmay Kashyap sharing his experience.
“These apps, originally meant for legitimate battery monitoring by owners, are being misused by some youngsters as a “prank” or revenge tool. They exploit weak/no security in cheap Chinese Bluetooth BMS units fitted in many e-rickshaws. Innocent daily-wage drivers and common people on the road are becoming victims. This is not fun – it’s a serious threat to road safety that can cause accidents, injuries, or worse,” he adds.
He further states: “Google and app stores must immediately ban/remove these apps. Ministry of Electronics & IT, Ministry of Road Transport & Highways & Police must take strict action against those misusing them. Battery manufacturers must fix security with proper passwords/authentication. Stop endangering innocent lives for cheap thrills.” However, there has been no response on these incidents by the Indian Government so far.
