Fast EV Charging for Commercial Vehicles Coming to TN Highways Soon

Chennai: Tamil Nadu is set to get high-speed EV charging stations for commercial vehicles along key highways. State industries minister T R B Rajaa made the announcement on Thursday, adding that the first such facility will come up in Ulundurpet.

The move is part of the state's plan to boost electric mobility for buses and goods carriers. Speaking at the Passenger Vehicle Expo 2.0 in Chennai, the minister said the charging setup would cater to intercity and long-distance EVs.

“Departments of energy and transport have created a proper setup for the purpose. It is for intercity and long-distance vehicles. The first infrastructure will be set up in Ulundurpet,” Rajaa said.

The new EV infrastructure is being developed by the departments of energy and transport, with support from the industries department. It will offer fast EV charging, with 70% battery capacity achieved in just 15 minutes, and full charge in 30 minutes.

Rajaa noted that such infrastructure is essential for boosting the adoption of bus EV charging and commercial EVs in the state. Until now, most TN EV charging efforts have focused on cars and two-wheelers.

“This is essential to enhance EV penetration in the bus segment,” he said.

This marks the beginning of Tamil Nadu’s larger EV highway plan, designed to support the growing number of electric vehicles used for public and cargo transport. The Ulundurpet charger will be the first in a series of highway stations aimed at making long-distance travel more practical for electric fleets.

In addition, the state is organizing a mini investor summit titled ‘TN Rising’ in Tuticorin next week. Rajaa said the conclave will likely see new MoUs being signed, especially in sectors like automobiles and renewable energy.

“This conclave will be taken to other industrial hubs in the state,” he said.

During his address, the minister also spoke about plans to set up an automobile centre of excellence. Run under Guidance Tamil Nadu, the facility would focus on creating a more self-reliant Tamil Nadu in the EV space.

Tamil Nadu is already a major player in India’s EV push. With dedicated efforts like TN transport EVs and targeted infrastructure along highways, the state is now making clear strides to support both everyday users and commercial operators.

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