Traction batteries will fall under COP requirements from 31st March 2023

From 31st March, if 2023, manufacturers would like to import to India or manufacturers who want to export traction batteries for EV to India or sell them in India need to get the Type Approval Certificate (TAC) first. In order to get the TAC, manufacturers need to perform factory audit and type approval test. In addition, the surveillance check should be carried out for the products which fall under COP. For the traction batteries, the surveillance check shall be carried out within 2-year period. Once the manufacturer complies with the COP requirement, he can only extend the validity of TAC.

 

FAQ for Traction Batteries under COP Requirements from 31st March 2023

Q1. Is factory audit mandatory?
A1. Yes, factory audit is mandatory and online factory audit is not accepted. However, if the battery has E-Mark certification, the E-Mark report and certificate can be provided to ARAI for review, and factory inspection may not be required.

Q2. If the factory audit is not completed before March 31, 2023, what will be the impact?
A2. If you fail to complete the factory audit and obtain the Type Approval Certificate (TAC) before March 31, 2023, you will not be able to import or sell this product in India.

Q3. Will a certificate be issued after factory audit?
A3. The Type Approval Certificate, TAC will be issued only after the factory audit and type approval test are completed.

Q4. Is mandatory to put the certificate number on the label?
A4. The certificate number needs to be placed on the label. If the product is E-Mark certified, it only needs to follow regulation of the E-Mark.

Q5. When can I know the ID number?
A5. After obtaining the test report, the certificate number will be shown on the report in addition to the report number.

Q6. How long is the validity of TAC certificate?
A6. The TAC certificate is valid for two years, and the COP procedure must be completed within this period to extend the validity of the certificat.

Q7. What is COP (Conformity of Production)?
A7. Conformity of production (COP) refers to ensuring that parts that have passed type approval and have met the requirements. In order to meet the requirements of COP, all products must go through "factory audit", "type approval test" and "surveillance check".

Q8. When will the surveillance check be conducted? Will testing be required?
A8. The starting date will start from the date of import of components or date of commercial production. Taking the battery for vehicles as an example, surveillance check needs to be carried out every two years. Vibration, overcharge and over-temperature protection tests are required.

Q9. After completing the COP program, will I get a certificate?
A9. When the TAC is obtained and the surveillance check is completed, a COP certificate will be issued. This certificate is to prove that your TAC certificate can be renewed for another 2 years with the same certificate number.

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