Union Minister for Heavy Industries, HD Kumaraswamy, has proposed the establishment of the third International Centre for Automotive Technology (ICAT-III) in Bengaluru. Announced on January 20, the proposed centre is set to become a hub for cutting-edge advancements in electric vehicle (EV) technology, software-defined vehicles (SDVs), autonomous systems, and data security.
A Strategic Initiative for Bengaluru
ICAT operates as a premier automotive testing, certification, and research institution under India’s National Automotive Testing and R&D Infrastructure Project (NATRiP). Highlighting Bengaluru’s status as India’s IT hub and its robust talent pool, Kumaraswamy stated, “Bengaluru has long been the nucleus of technological innovation in India. Establishing ICAT Centre-III would not only strengthen the automotive sector but also catalyse advancements in defence, railways, and sustainable technologies.”
The minister emphasized the transformative potential of the facility, calling it a critical step in positioning India as a global leader in advanced mobility and technology solutions. “This initiative will drive innovation across sectors while fostering R&D in allied industries,” Kumaraswamy added.
Planned Facilities and Objectives
The proposed ICAT-III centre will house state-of-the-art infrastructure, including:
- Advanced EV development and calibration laboratories.
- ECU (Electronic Control Unit) design and sensor development facilities.
- Cybersecurity labs and ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) research.
- Facilities for connected and autonomous vehicle technologies.
- Software testing and development for SDVs.
These facilities align with emerging trends in the Internet of Things (IoT), telematics, and vehicular IT services, aiming to propel India’s mobility innovation while ensuring data security and sustainability.
Positioning Bengaluru as a Tech Hub
Kumaraswamy stressed that Bengaluru’s unparalleled IT ecosystem, skilled workforce, and industry-ready infrastructure make it the ideal location for ICAT Centre-III. “This facility will not only enhance India’s automotive sector but also cement Bengaluru’s reputation as a hub for futuristic technologies,” he noted.
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Driving India’s Leadership in Automotive Innovation
The ICAT-III facility aims to be a significant milestone for India’s automotive and technology sectors. It will focus on sustainable and advanced mobility solutions. If approved, it could strengthen India’s position as a global leader in the automotive industry. The facility will also contribute to advancements in defence and railway technologies.
The proposed ICAT Centre-III highlights India’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. It reflects a vision to integrate advanced IT services with next-generation mobility solutions. This initiative underscores the country’s focus on global competitiveness and technological progress.
