India Gets First IEEE MOVE Vehicle With Solar Power and Emergency Wi-Fi | Science News

By Pune Media On Jul 22, 2025

IEEE has launched its first MOVE outreach vehicle outside the US, starting in India. The van is equipped with solar power, emergency communications, and climate education kits. It will support both disaster response and STEM outreach, beginning with schools in Karnataka.

IEEE’s MOVE India Van Brings STEM Kits and Disaster Tech to Schools and Relief Zones

New Delhi: India has just received its first-ever IEEE MOVE vehicle, and it’s unlike anything on the road. Meant to support both disaster response and STEM education, this new mobile unit was officially launched on July 21 at the IEEE India Office inside Bengaluru’s World Trade Center. It’s the first time IEEE has deployed such a vehicle outside the United States.

This isn’t just another science-on-wheels bus. The vehicle is packed with emergency-grade power systems and communication tools, along with hands-on educational kits for teaching science and tech to students. Built on a sturdy Force Traveller chassis, it’s designed to tackle Indian roads while doubling up as a tech hub during emergencies.

STEM learning meets emergency response

According to IEEE, the idea is to mix two big needs, disaster relief and tech education into one mobile platform. The MOVE India vehicle will operate mainly in Karnataka for now and is expected to reach more than 100 schools every year.

The inside of the vehicle features interactive STEM kits focused on climate change, sustainability, and disaster readiness. It’s like a mini tech classroom on wheels. For school visits, it carries all the tools needed to make science fun and practical.

Built for power outages and broken networks

The MOVE vehicle isn’t just for education. It’s built to function during natural disasters when power and communication lines fail. It has a hybrid power system that can run up to 30 hours using grid or solar power. It also carries a lithium-ion battery setup and hybrid inverter for backup.

In terms of connectivity, the vehicle is fitted with a Wi-Fi 6e antenna, 4G modules, and HAM radio systems. This setup helps provide communication access during emergencies in areas where networks are down or overloaded.

IEEE’s 2025 President and CEO Kathleen Kramer said the India project “marks a significant expansion as a global effort while directly addressing critical needs in that region.” She said the vehicle aims to provide “essential communication and power solutions during emergencies, while also empowering the next generation through STEM education.”

From demos to deployment

IEEE MOVE has been around in the US for years, helping out during hurricanes and wildfires. The India chapter is expected to take the same path. Mary Ellen Randall, IEEE’s President-Elect for 2025, said that combining emergency response with long-term education goals makes the project special. She said it shows how tech can help build more resilient communities.

The launch is part of IEEE’s larger plan to take its humanitarian tech efforts global. This India-first deployment could become a template for other countries.

What’s inside the MOVE India vehicle

Grid and solar power with lithium battery backup
Wi-Fi 6e, 4G, and HAM radio communications
Modular layout for both disaster support and education
STEM kits focused on climate change and preparedness

For India, where floods, storms, and power outages are frequent, such a vehicle brings both practical support and learning opportunities. And for kids in remote areas, it’s a rare chance to get hands-on with tech and science without leaving their town.

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