ICAT proposes third automotive centre in Bengaluru to boost EV innovation

The International Centre for Automotive Technology (ICAT), based in Manesar, plans to establish its third facility in Bengaluru, aiming to position the city as a global hub for advanced automotive and electric vehicle (EV) technologies. Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H.D. Kumaraswamy announced the proposal on Monday.

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Bengaluru is the nucleus of India’s technological innovation. The proposed ICAT Centre here aims to drive advancements in electric vehicles, autonomous systems, and next-generation automotive solutions.

As part of the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, the centre will not only strengthen the automotive sector but also foster developments in defence, railways, and sustainable technologies.

The envisioned ICAT-III facility will include state-of-the-art electric vehicle development and calibration labs, ECU design and sensor development capabilities, cybersecurity labs, and research on advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). It will also focus on connected and autonomous vehicle technologies, software testing for software-defined vehicles, and host a national automotive data repository.

This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to making Bengaluru the focal point for next-generation automotive advancements. Talks are ongoing, and with ministerial support, the proposed centre is expected to materialize soon.

The move reinforces Bengaluru’s role as a leading player in technology and innovation, paving the way for transformative growth in India's automotive industry.