The Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) inaugurated new testing infrastructure and announced strategic industry collaborations during its Diamond Jubilee celebrations in Pune. Union Minister of Heavy Industries and Steel, H.D. Kumaraswamy, virtually inaugurated the Advanced Battery Laboratory and the Advanced Two-Dynamometer E-Axle and EV Powertrain Test Facility.
ARAI also exchanged a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Skoda Auto Volkswagen India for the transfer of a land parcel to develop an Advanced Crash Test Facility (ACTF).
Developed with an investment of approximately Rs 55 crore, the Advanced Battery Laboratory will handle battery testing, safety assessment, certification, and export compliance for EVs and hybrid vehicles.
"As we advance towards a future driven by sustainable and low-carbon mobility, emerging technologies and next-generation transportation systems, collaboration across stakeholders remain essential," said Prasan Firodia, Vice President, ARAI Governing Council.