Centre of Excellence in Advanced Automotive Research (CAAR)

The Center of Excellence in Advanced Automotive Research (CAAR) provides world-class Advanced Technology and facilities to the Automotive Industry, advise on policy, and build human resources. The Center has been developed with the guidance and support from the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras, an institution of global eminence and national importance.

The Centre brings together eminent research expertise from India and around the World, working with resident competencies. The center deeply engages with Industry, Start-ups, Associations, Government and International bodies, and CSR Initiatives.

Auto industry accounts for 49% of India's Manufacturing and 7% of its GDP. With FY23 revenues of USD 88 bn for Vehicles and USD 44 bn for Components, it employs 5 mn people. R&D expenditure is estimated at USD 4.2 bn, with much of this spent on imported technology. Global Auto market is much larger at USD 1.9 tn with R&D spend of USD 125 bn. India Auto market and R&D spends are growing to larger numbers domestically and in exports.

Technology disruptions such as emission controls, electrification, alternate fuels, and connected smart mobility are opening up big opportunities for Indian Auto Industry. Availability of highly skilled technical workforce and eminent institutions, along with support from government, provides for globally advanced R&D to be done out of India for the industry - in India and globally.