Viral 'Chinese App' Panic Explained: Can BAT-BMS Really Stop Your E-Rickshaw?
Chinese app can remotely stop e-rickshaws in India. While the concern has some basis, experts say the issue is not the app itself but poor security in certain low-cost battery systems.
A viral claim suggesting that the Chinese BAT-BMS app can remotely hack and stop any e-rickshaw has raised concerns among drivers and electric vehicle owners. Reports of e-rickshaws suddenly losing power have further fueled the debate.
However, the BAT-BMS app is a legitimate Battery Management System (BMS) application developed by Shenzhen Grenergy Technology. It is designed to monitor battery health, voltage, and charging status—not to hack vehicles.
The real vulnerability lies in some low-cost lithium batteries used in certain e-rickshaws. These batteries feature Bluetooth-enabled BMS units that lack password protection or proper access controls. If such a system includes a Discharge Control function, anyone within Bluetooth range may be able to connect through the app and switch off the battery's power output. This immediately cuts power to the motor, causing the vehicle to stop.
Experts stress that this does not mean every e-rickshaw, e-bike, or electric car is vulnerable. Most established manufacturers use password protection, secure firmware, and encrypted communication protocols to prevent unauthorized access.
To reduce the risk, manufacturers and vehicle owners should change default Bluetooth passwords, enable available security features, and install firmware updates that restrict or remove sensitive controls like remote discharge. These measures ensure the app is used only for monitoring battery performance.
The incident highlights the growing importance of cybersecurity in India's expanding electric vehicle sector, especially as connected battery technologies become more common.
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