Chinese App BAT-BMS Can Remotely Shut Down E-Rickshaw? Here’s How It Works
BAT-BMS, a Bluetooth-enabled battery monitoring app developed by China's Shenzhen Grenergy Technology, has gone viral over claims that it can remotely switch off e-rickshaws and EVs. While there is no verified evidence that it affects all vehicles, the app works only with compatible Bluetooth-enabled battery management systems, raising broader concerns about EV cybersecurity.
A Bluetooth-enabled mobile application called BAT-BMS has gone viral after social media users claimed it can connect to nearby e-rickshaws and electric scooters and remotely switch off their power. While the claims have triggered concerns over electric vehicle (EV) cybersecurity, there is currently no verified evidence that the app can disable all nearby EVs or that the viral videos reflect a universal vulnerability across vehicles.
The app is designed to communicate with compatible Bluetooth-enabled Battery Management Systems (BMS) rather than vehicles in general. Experts say the discussion has nevertheless highlighted the need for stronger cybersecurity measures as connected mobility and smart battery systems become more common. ‘Made in China’ BYD EV in Self-Driving Mode Spirals out of Control at Tianfu Airport in Chengdu After Brake Failure, Circles Over 100 Times (Watch Video).
BAT-BMS Viral Claims Raise Questions Over E-Rickshaw and EV Security
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What Is BAT-BMS?
BAT-BMS is a free utility mobile application developed by Shenzhen Grenergy Technology Co., Ltd., a Chinese company. It is designed to monitor smart Bluetooth-enabled lithium batteries and functions as a Battery Management System (BMS) monitoring tool without requiring a separate hardware display. Is the ‘Electric Vehicle Running While Charging Via Generator’ Video Real or Fake? Fact Check Reveals Viral Reel Is AI-Generated.
The app connects wirelessly using Bluetooth 5.0 Low Energy (BLE) and provides users with real-time battery information, including:
- State of Charge (SOC)
- Battery voltage
- Charge and discharge current
- Cycle life
- Individual cell voltages
- Battery temperature
It also supports monitoring multiple compatible batteries, tracks battery health over time and has an operating range of approximately 15 metres.
BAT-BMS is available on both Android and iOS platforms and is primarily intended for users of Bluetooth-enabled lithium battery systems used in applications such as solar installations, RVs, marine systems and off-grid power storage.
Can BAT-BMS Automatically Connect To E-Rickshaws?
Short Answer: No, it does not connect automatically with a typical e-rickshaw, and compatibility is unlikely in most cases.
The app is specifically designed to work with smart Bluetooth-enabled lithium batteries that feature a compatible BMS module. Most e-rickshaws, particularly those operating in India and several other markets, typically use:
- Standard lead-acid batteries without Bluetooth connectivity.
- Basic lithium battery packs without Bluetooth-enabled BMS.
- Proprietary battery management systems that operate through manufacturer-specific applications instead of BAT-BMS.
Because the app relies on Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), the battery must actively advertise itself via Bluetooth before any connection can be established. It cannot automatically detect or connect to incompatible battery hardware.
When Can The App Work With An E-Rickshaw?
BAT-BMS may work if an e-rickshaw has been fitted with a Bluetooth-enabled smart lithium battery that uses a compatible BMS chipset.
Some aftermarket lithium battery conversion kits include Bluetooth-enabled battery management systems. In such cases, users may manually connect to the battery within the Bluetooth operating range to monitor parameters such as battery charge, voltage, current and temperature.
However, this depends entirely on hardware compatibility and does not mean the app can connect to every electric vehicle.
Viral Claims Spark EV Cybersecurity Debate
The viral videos circulating online have renewed attention on cybersecurity risks associated with connected electric vehicles and smart battery systems. While there is no official confirmation that BAT-BMS can remotely disable all e-rickshaws or electric scooters, the incident has prompted discussions about authentication, Bluetooth security and access controls in battery management systems.
Cybersecurity experts say manufacturers should continue strengthening software protections, secure pairing mechanisms and encryption standards to minimise the risk of unauthorised access as connected mobility technologies become increasingly widespread.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 01, 2026 03:41 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
