Pump-free, Fan-free Cooling for EV Batteries in India’s Climate
Researchers at MIT-WPU, Pune have developed a patented passive hybrid cooling system for electric vehicle batteries, combining high-efficiency heat-pipes with a specially engineered nanofluid. This system granted Indian Patent No. 202121029238 removes the need for pumps, fans or additional electrical power. Instead, it relies on natural convection and phase-change processes to draw heat away from battery hotspots.
The nanofluid is engineered with thermally conductive nanoparticles and low-boiling-point liquids to accelerate heat extraction. Paired with heat-pipes, the system can maintain stable battery temperature even under high ambient heat a critical requirement for EV operations in Indian weather conditions.
Enhanced Safety, Efficiency and Battery Life
By avoiding active mechanical components, the passive cooling system reduces energy overhead, lowers maintenance complexity, and removes potential points of failure. The design improves battery lifespan, charging efficiency, and thermal stability factors that are key to building trust in EV safety among consumers.
The innovation addresses major challenges for Indian EV adoption, including thermal runaway risks and performance degradation caused by poor heat management in two-wheelers and three-wheelers which dominate the country’s EV fleet mix.
Market Opportunity and Broader Implications
The battery thermal management systems (BTMS) market is expected to grow rapidly. Global estimates place its value at US$5.41 billion in 2024, projected to reach US$29.09 billion by 2030. In India, the BTMS segment is forecast to expand from roughly US$138 million in 2025 to nearly US$470 million by 2034.
With EV penetration surging and safety concerns rising, the MIT-WPU passive cooling technology offers automakers and OEMs a compelling, cost-effective option for thermal management especially for mass-market EVs operating in hot climates.
This development could significantly enhance India’s EV reliability and accelerate wider adoption by resolving one of the most persistent technical challenges: temperature-related battery degradation and fire risk.
