Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. (M&M) unveiled two cutting-edge research facilities— the Passive Safety Lab (PSL) and the Advanced Cell Research Laboratory & Battery Proto Build Shop— marking a new chapter in automotive research and development. The facilities, which represent an investment of over Rs. 300 crores, aim to enhance vehicle safety testing and advance clean mobility solutions.
The inauguration was graced by Dr. T.R.B. Rajaa, Honorable Minister for Industries, Investment Promotion & Commerce of Tamil Nadu, alongside Mr. Velusamy R., President – Automotive Technology & Product Development, M&M Ltd., and senior Tamil Nadu government officials. Located just 55 kilometers from the Mahindra Research Valley (MRV), where the company’s SUVs are developed, these facilities are set to become a cornerstone of Mahindra’s R&D efforts.
World-Class Safety Testing at the Passive Safety Lab
The PSL lab is among the largest of its kind owned by an automotive OEM, capable of performing a variety of tests under the Bharat New Car Assessment Program (BNCAP), as well as the Australian and European New Car Assessment Programs (A/ENCAP). It boasts two crash testing areas equipped with a 100-tonne capacity movable block, a fixed block with a track length of 306 meters, and high-speed cameras capable of recording up to 1,000 frames per second.
Engineers can conduct tests for vehicles weighing up to 4 tonnes and reaching speeds of 120 km/h. The lab supports multiple crash scenarios, including offset deformable barrier tests, side-impact tests, and rear impact tests. It also features a dedicated area for electric vehicle (EV) crash testing, equipped with fixed blocks and observation garages. With a vast array of advanced dummies and in-house certification facilities, the PSL lab stands ready to handle the most rigorous safety assessments.
Battery & Cell Research Lab Pioneers Clean Mobility
Mahindra’s Battery & Cell Research Lab is designed to push the boundaries of battery technology, focusing on developing more efficient and durable battery cells, modules, and packs. The lab is equipped with high-end analytical tools, including Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and Computed Tomography (CT) scanning. It also features advanced laser welding facilities and robotic flow drill screw fastening systems for the development of prototype battery packs.
These prototype packs undergo stringent testing to ensure optimal performance under real-world conditions, paving the way for Mahindra’s next-generation EVs.
Industry Leaders Praise the Initiative
Speaking at the launch, Dr. T.R.B. Rajaa highlighted the importance of such initiatives in solidifying Tamil Nadu’s position as a global hub for research and development. “Under the leadership of Honourable Chief Minister Thiru. M.K. Stalin, we are focused on supporting initiatives that align with our vision for a sustainable future and enhanced mobility solutions,” he said. “I am confident that the innovations from these labs will contribute to reinforcing India’s rightful place as a global R&D hub.”
Mr. Velusamy R. emphasized Mahindra’s commitment to safety and sustainability. “With the launch of the Passive Safety Lab and Battery & Cell Research Lab, we have once again reiterated our promise to deliver the best SUVs in the world. These facilities will enable us to develop the safest and most innovative vehicles for our customers, further enhancing Mahindra’s position as a leader in the automotive sector.”
The new PSL and Battery Research Lab underline Mahindra & Mahindra’s dedication to advancing automotive safety and clean mobility, as the company continues to shape the future of mobility from the heart of Tamil Nadu.
