Manesar: Union Minister for Heavy Industries, HD Kumaraswamy, has proposed the establishment of the third centre of the International Center for Automotive Technology (ICAT-III) in Bengaluru, aiming to make the city a global hub for advanced automotive and EV technologies.
Taking the initiative to spearhead this ambitious project, Kumaraswamy stressed on Bengaluru’s strategic advantages as India’s IT capital, with a rich talent pool and robust industry ecosystem.
Speaking about his vision, the Minister said, “Bengaluru is the nucleus of India’s technological innovation. By proposing ICAT Centre-III here, we aim to drive advancements in electric vehicles, autonomous systems, and next-generation automotive solutions. This initiative will not only boost the automotive sector, but also catalyze developments in defence, railways, and sustainable technologies.”
Key Features of the Proposed ICAT Centre-III
The envisioned ICAT-III facility is set to feature:
- Advanced Electric Vehicle (EV) development and calibration labs
- ECU design and sensor development capabilities.
- Cybersecurity labs and ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) research.
- Connected and autonomous vehicle technologies.
- Software testing and development for Software Defined Vehicles (SDVs).
- A National Automotive Data Repository to serve as India’s central automotive backend infrastructure.
These facilities will address critical areas like Internet of Things (IoT), telematics, data security, and vehicular IT services, thereby ensuring India’s leadership in the evolving global mobility landscape, he said.
Bengaluru: The Strategic Choice
Highlighting Bengaluru’s suitability, Kumaraswamy remarked, “The city’s unmatched IT ecosystem, skilled workforce, and infrastructure make it the perfect location for ICAT Centre-III. This facility will integrate advanced automotive IT services with cutting-edge mobility technologies, setting a benchmark for innovation and sustainability.”
Transformative Vision for Multiple Sectors
Kumaraswamy also emphasized that ICAT Centre-III will not only elevate India’s standing in the automotive industry but also spur innovation in allied sectors.
He said, “This center will transform Bengaluru into a hub for automotive, defence, and railway advancements, ensuring the convergence of research, development, and sustainable technologies.”
Aligned with Atmanirbhar Bharat
Proposing the project as part of the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, the Minister stressed its alignment with India’s vision for self-reliance and technological excellence.
“This step will not only strengthen India’s EV and automotive capabilities but also bolster our journey towards sustainable and innovative mobility solutions under the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision,” he noted.
Commitment to Drive Progress
Kumaraswamy’s initiative signals the government’s intent to making Bengaluru the focal point for next-generation automotive advancements. Talks are already underway, and with the Minister’s assurance, the proposed ICAT Centre-III is expected to take shape, bringing transformative change to India’s automotive and technological landscape.
