Union Steel Minister envisages Advanced EV and Automotive Tech Centre in Bengaluru

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 at an event in Manesar Haryana recently, 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 are as follows:

1. Advanced Electric Vehicle (EV) development and calibration labs.
2. ECU design and sensor development capabilities.
3. Cybersecurity labs and ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) research.
4. Connected and autonomous vehicle technologies.
5. Software testing and development for Software Defined Vehicles (SDVs).
6. A National Automotive Data Repository to serve as India’s central automotive backend infrastructure.

These facilities are proposed to 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, Minister Kumaraswamy said, “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.” 

In fulfillment of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ 

Proposing the project as part of the Central 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.