ARAI and COEP to Set Up Rs 105 Crore Ergonomics Research Centre in Pune

The Automotive Research Association of India announced that it has signed a Letter of Intent with Pune's COEP Technological University on Monday, to establish an Advanced Ergonomics and Human Factors Research Centre at COEP Tech's Research and Innovation Park.

The joint project involves a planned investment of Rs 105 crore and will serve as a national center to develop testing methodologies and product validation appropriate for Indian physical characteristics and operating conditions.

Spanning approximately 38,000 square feet, the facility will be designed to reduce reliance on European ergonomical parameters.

ARAI said the project will be executed in two phases, with the initial phase focusing over the next two to three years on posture evaluation, seating comfort analysis, human biomechanics studies, and field of vision assessments. The second phase will involve scaling up to a full-capacity center over the subsequent four to five years.

"We believe the AEHFRC will play a significant role in strengthening India's capabilities in human-centred design and innovation." Reji Mathai, Director, ARAI, said. Sunil Bhirud, Vice-Chancellor, COEP Technological University, added, "We are confident that this initiative will contribute significantly to the development of Indian standards, indigenous technologies, and a skilled workforce capable of addressing national and global challenges."