In an unusual turn of events e-rickshaws are trending right now with an app call BAT-BMS, and not for their ability to aid commute but for randomly shutting down on the road in the middle of running. Social media is getting flooded with various videos that e-rickshaws can be shut down mid-way just with the use of a mobile.
Social media is buzzing with videos of e-rickshaws shutting down mid-road using an app called BAT-BMS. As the video started getting more traction over social media it started to raise concerns over safety of battery-powered e-rickshaws, electric scooters and even bigger electric cars. Many users started tagging Govt handles on social media platforms and questions about this app was raised, but is it really possible?
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What Is The BAT-BMS App?
The BAT-BMS app is an Android application designed to manage and monitor batteries equipped with a Battery Management System (BMS). Developed by Shenzhen Greenergy Technology, the app connects to compatible batteries over Bluetooth, allowing users to access key battery information directly from their smartphone.
If you're wondering why a battery needs Bluetooth, many modern battery packs now come with Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) support built in. This will allow the application to connect wirelessly to the battery and provide real-time information on parameters such as temperature, voltage and current. In addition, depending on the battery type, there could be an ability to enable/disable charging from the application itself.
Battery Management System applications are common and can be found in electric cars and other devices that use batteries.
About Shenzhen Greenergy Technology
Shenzhen Greenergy Technology is a China-based battery manufacturer that has been in operation since 2010. According to the company's website, it supplies batteries to several markets worldwide, including India.
Is BAT-BMS Actually A Hacking App?
Not really. Despite all the buzz around it, BAT-BMS isn't a hacking app. It's a battery management application built for Smart Bluetooth Lithium Batteries that come with a Battery Management System (BMS). The app is meant to help users keep an eye on their battery by showing details like the charge level, voltage, temperature, current and other health-related information. Depending on the battery, it can also be used to turn charging and discharging functions on or off.
So Why Is Everyone Talking About It?
The app has landed in the spotlight because of the way some Bluetooth-enabled e-rickshaw batteries are configured. If a battery's BMS doesn't have proper security in place, anyone within a Bluetooth range of around 10 to 15 metres could connect to it using a compatible BMS app and disable the battery's power output.
The important thing to understand here is that the problem isn't BAT-BMS itself. The app is doing exactly what it was designed to do. The real issue lies with batteries that allow Bluetooth access without adequate protection, making them vulnerable to misuse.
What Can E-Rickshaw Drivers Do If This Happens?
In the case that the power of an e-rickshaw fails due to somebody blocking the battery of the e-rickshaw using BMS, one should not fear because it is possible to reactivate the battery in most instances.
First of all, one should park the e-rickshaw safely. One should turn the main switch of the battery off and on again, and then the key of the vehicle off and on. Next, open the BAT-BMS app on Android, or the LOSSIGY app if you're using an iPhone, and connect to the battery if it appears in the device list. Once connected, head to the Control section and make sure both the Charge Switch and Discharge Switch options are enabled.
If the Battery Management System has entered Safe Mode, this reset process is often enough to get the e-rickshaw running again. If the issue continues, the battery manufacturer or an authorised service centre should be the next point of contact.