EV, cleantech and mobility
Altigreen Charging Infrastructure Lead Interview: Rounds, Questions and Preparation
For Charging Infrastructure Lead roles at companies like Altigreen
What the job involves
A Charging Infrastructure Lead at an EV company like Altigreen plans, deploys, and maintains charging networks for electric commercial vehicles such as e-rickshaws and small trucks. Day to day, you coordinate with site hosts, electrical contractors, and utilities to install AC and DC chargers, monitor uptime, and optimise charging schedules for fleet customers. You also work with product and sales teams to size charging solutions for new vehicle launches and ensure safety and compliance.
Role and Technical Knowledge
- 1
What is the difference between AC and DC charging for electric commercial vehicles, and when would you choose one over the other for a fleet of e-rickshaws?
Explain that AC charging is slower, cheaper, and uses the vehicle's onboard charger, while DC fast charging bypasses it for higher power. For e-rickshaws with small batteries and overnight parking, AC is often sufficient and cost-effective; DC is better for high-utilisation fleets needing quick turnaround.
- 2
Explain the CC-CV charging method and why it matters for lithium-ion batteries used in EVs.
Constant current then constant voltage prevents overcharging and extends battery life. Mention that the charger must communicate with the BMS to switch modes safely.
- 3
What factors do you consider when assessing a site for installing a public EV charger?
Cover available power supply, distance from transformer, footfall or fleet parking duration, accessibility, safety clearances, and local DISCOM permissions. Also mention cable routing and protection from water and heat.
- 4
What are the key Indian standards and regulations for EV charging infrastructure that you would need to comply with?
Mention AIS-138 for charger specifications, CEA regulations for safety, and state DISCOM guidelines. Also note that for commercial charging, metering and tariff approvals are required.
Practical Scenarios
- 5
A fleet customer complains that their vehicles take too long to charge overnight, delaying morning shifts. How would you diagnose and solve this?
Check charger power rating vs vehicle onboard charger limit, battery size, and whether all vehicles charge simultaneously causing load sharing. Suggest staggered charging schedules, upgrading to higher-power chargers, or adding more charging points.
- 6
You are setting up a charging station in a semi-urban area with weak grid supply. What steps would you take to ensure reliable charging?
Consider a power audit, possible use of solar with battery buffer, or a diesel generator as backup. Also talk to the DISCOM about load sanction and voltage fluctuations. Mention surge protection and voltage stabilisers.
- 7
Your charging network has 20% downtime due to charger faults. How would you reduce this and improve uptime?
Propose remote monitoring, preventive maintenance schedules, spare parts inventory, and vendor SLAs. Also train local technicians and keep a log of common failures to address root causes.
- 8
A site host wants to install a charger but is worried about electricity costs. How would you present the business case?
Calculate cost per kWh, compare with petrol/diesel savings for fleet operators, and show potential revenue from public charging. Mention time-of-day tariffs and possible subsidies under state EV policies.
Behavioural and Situational
- 9
Tell me about a time you had to coordinate with multiple people to complete a project. How did you ensure everyone was on the same page?
Use STAR format. Highlight clear communication, setting timelines, and following up. For a fresher, a college project or internship example works.
- 10
You are on a site visit and notice a safety hazard, but the contractor says it is not a big issue. What do you do?
Show that you prioritise safety and compliance over convenience. Explain that you would document the hazard, escalate to your manager, and not proceed until it is fixed.
- 11
Describe a situation where you had to learn a new technical concept quickly. How did you approach it?
Demonstrate curiosity and self-learning. Mention resources like manuals, online courses, or mentors. Relate it to EV charging if possible.
- 12
Why do you want to work in EV charging infrastructure, and how do you handle frequent travel to different sites?
Show passion for clean mobility and willingness to be hands-on. Mention that you are adaptable and enjoy field work, not just desk jobs.
HR and Company Fit
- 13
What do you know about our company and why do you want to join us?
Research the company's products, mission, and recent news. For Altigreen, mention their focus on commercial EVs and last-mile connectivity. Connect your skills to their goals.
- 14
Where do you see yourself in three years in this role?
Show ambition to grow into a senior infrastructure or operations role. Mention gaining expertise in charging network design and team leadership.
- 15
How do you handle pressure when multiple sites have issues at the same time?
Talk about prioritisation based on impact, using checklists, and communicating clearly with stakeholders. Give an example if possible.
- 16
What are your salary expectations for this role?
Research industry standards for fresher roles in EV infrastructure. Give a range and mention flexibility based on learning and growth opportunities.
Ready to try it for real?
Take a timed test or talk through a mock interview for this role, then see your scores.
This is practice material for Charging Infrastructure Lead roles, written with AI. It is not a list of questions Altigreen or any other company has asked.