The department’s initiatives drive India’s eMobility growth by enhancing safety, skilling, outreach, research, and advocacy, shaping a sustainable EV future.
As India moves toward a ₹20 trillion electric vehicle (EV) market by 2030, IIT Madras is playing a pivotal role in accelerating the country’s eMobility transformation. With over 15 government-backed projects, the institute’s Department of Engineering Design is leading research, policy advocacy, and technology development to support India’s EV ecosystem.
✅ Comprehensive Approach to eMobility
The Department of Engineering Design at IIT Madras has taken a seven-pronged approach to advance EV adoption, covering:
- Developing India-centric EV technologies
- Enhancing safety and conducting field studies
- Providing policy recommendations to the government
- Establishing world-class skilling initiatives
- Creating specialized research labs for innovation
- Engaging with industry experts for real-world applications
- Advancing science-based research for long-term impact
✅ Key Initiatives at IIT Madras
1. Skilling the Future EV Workforce
- IIT Madras has launched eMobility certification courses, a dual degree program, and a web-enabled MTech program for working professionals.
- The program includes industry-backed lab sessions to ensure hands-on learning.
2. Centre of Excellence for Zero-Emission Trucking
- A dedicated Centre of Excellence is driving innovation in zero-emission trucking, a sector gaining traction in India.
- The initiative focuses on policy discussions, technical collaborations with industry, and commercial partnerships to make zero-emission trucking a reality.
3. Policy & Industry Collaboration
- IIT Madras is actively involved in policy advocacy with the Government of India and the Government of Tamil Nadu to shape effective EV policies.
- Partnerships with leading automakers, consultants, and international experts ensure the industry remains aligned with global trends.
✅ State-of-the-Art Research Facilities
To support its initiatives, IIT Madras has established six cutting-edge labs focused on:
- EV motor and battery innovations
- Charging infrastructure development
- Energy management solutions
- Safety testing for electric vehicles
✅ A Holistic Vision for India’s EV Growth
Professor Karthick Athmanathan, a professor of practice at IIT Madras, emphasized the comprehensive nature of the institute’s work:
“EV adoption isn’t just about chargers, motors, or batteries—it’s about the entire ecosystem, including energy management, policy frameworks, and cost analysis. Our goal is to create solutions tailored to Indian conditions.”
✅ What’s Next for IIT Madras in eMobility?
- Faculty development programs to train educators at other institutions.
- Expanding skilling and testing resources across India.
- Building a national network connecting industry, government, and academia for collective progress.
✅ Conclusion: Paving the Way for India’s EV Revolution
IIT Madras is shaping the future of India’s EV industry, ensuring technological innovation, policy alignment, and workforce readiness. As India moves toward sustainable mobility, the institute’s initiatives will be instrumental in achieving national and global EV goals.
