Battery hazard looms over EV dream

By the Editorial Team · Wednesday, September 23, 2026

Bangladesh is grappling with the challenge of managing used electric vehicle batteries as it aims to have EVs constitute 30 percent of its vehicle fleet by 2030. Experts and industry leaders emphasize the need for clear battery health standards, effective recycling systems, and expanded EV infrastructure to prevent environmental hazards and support affordable access to reconditioned EVs.

Bangladesh is facing growing challenges in managing used electric vehicle (EV) batteries as the government pushes to increase the share of EVs on its roads to 30 percent by 2030. The rapid rise in EV adoption, driven by incentives aimed at promoting environmentally friendly transport, has highlighted the urgent need for a comprehensive system to collect, recycle, and safely dispose of spent batteries.

A recent discussion on whether to allow imports of older, used EVs emphasized the importance of establishing clear battery management guidelines. Abdul Haque, president of the Bangladesh Reconditioned Vehicle Importers and Dealers Association (BARVIDA), advocated for permitting imports of reconditioned EVs that meet established safety and battery health criteria. He suggested that vehicles with at least 80 percent battery capacity, verified through independent inspections and certifications, should be allowed entry. Haque emphasized that used EVs provide an affordable option for middle-income consumers and sustain livelihoods for thousands of workers involved in vehicle refurbishment and sales.

The concerns extend beyond imported vehicles to locally manufactured EVs and the widespread battery-powered three-wheelers operating in the country. Currently, Bangladesh lacks a regulated framework for the end-of-life management of EV batteries, raising risks of environmental pollution and health hazards stemming from improper disposal.

Industry experts cautioned that large-scale imports of older EVs without stringent battery standards could transfer the burden of recycling and hazardous waste management onto Bangladesh. They stressed the importance of comprehensive standards for battery health, noting that factors such as battery chemistry, usage patterns, charging practices, ambient temperature, and power quality impact battery performance more than age alone. Several specialists suggested introducing battery passports to track the lifecycle and maintenance history of EV batteries, ensuring accountability for manufacturers and importers.

Beyond battery management, participants called for the expansion of EV infrastructure, including additional charging stations and battery repair facilities. Strengthening the electrical grid and training a skilled workforce were also identified as critical components for supporting the anticipated growth in EV adoption.

BARVIDA voiced opposition to government policies perceived as monopolistic, which restrict imports of reconditioned EVs while allowing unfettered entry of new models. This stance reflects wider debates on balancing import regulations with consumer affordability and environmental safeguards.

The discussion underscored broad agreement on the necessity for coordinated policy development and robust battery management strategies to support Bangladesh’s EV ambitions while mitigating environmental and public health risks.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.