In a significant move to promote capacity building, Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) has partnered with the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) to establish a Mobility Engineering Laboratory. This initiative aims to enhance learning, research, and development in advanced cutting-edge technologies within the mobility sector.
The Indian Institute of Science, founded in 1909 by industrialist Jamsetji Nusserwanji Tata, the Government of India, and the Mysore Royal Family, is one of India’s premier institutions for advanced education and research. Recognized as an Institute of Eminence (IoE) by the Government of India, IISc consistently ranks as the top Indian institution in global rankings.
The new Mobility Engineering Laboratory will focus on electrified vehicle powertrain technologies and will utilize Hardware-in-Loop (HIL) simulation for comprehensive testing and development. This facility will equip the next generation of engineers with the multidisciplinary skills needed to develop advanced mobility solutions. From FY 2024 to 2027, TKM will support the establishment of the lab and procure essential equipment and infrastructure, including a high-speed dynamometer, battery emulator, automation and control systems, vehicle simulation software, and mounting hardware for motors and engines. The laboratory will support research across various departments, including Mechanical Engineering and Electrical Engineering.
A key feature of the lab will be the HIL Test facility, which combines real-world measurements with simulations for reproducible, fast, and cost-effective testing. This technology is crucial for vehicle development, enabling the testing of individual components such as engines, motors, and batteries under simulated real-world driving conditions.
Prof. G Rangarajan, Director of IISc, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “We are delighted to join hands with TKM to establish the Mobility Engineering Laboratory. This facility will provide our students and researchers with state-of-the-art tools and infrastructure to address critical challenges in the automotive industry, including emissions reduction and energy efficiency. The collaboration with TKM will bring together the best minds in academia and industry, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence. We anticipate many significant advancements resulting from this collaboration, particularly in the areas of electrified vehicle powertrain technologies.”
Mr. Sudeep Dalvi, Senior Vice President and Chief Communication Officer of Toyota Kirloskar Motor, echoed this sentiment, saying, “We are honored to partner with IISc, an institution synonymous with academic and research excellence. This MoU marks a significant milestone in our efforts to foster innovation in mobility engineering. By supporting the establishment of the Mobility Engineering Laboratory, we are investing in the future of sustainable mobility and the development of skilled engineers in India. This laboratory will serve as a crucible for pioneering research, enabling the development of new technologies that address the pressing challenges of our times, such as climate change and the need for cleaner, more efficient transportation solutions.”
TKM has a history of promoting education and skill development through initiatives like the Toyota Technical Training Institute (TTTI) and the Toyota Technical Education Program (T-TEP). These programs provide world-class training and skill development to rural youth in Karnataka, fostering scalable and sustainable education that meets global standards. Additionally, TKM has supported the construction and renovation of school infrastructure in rural and semi-urban areas, ensuring students have access to safe and well-equipped learning environments. Through its ongoing social development efforts since 2001, TKM has positively impacted more than 2.3 million lives, addressing the diverse needs of communities across the region.
