In a bid to advance sustainable mobility and foster innovation, Mercedes-Benz Research and Development India (MBRDI) has entered into a two-year collaboration with the Indian Institute of Science (IISc). The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the automotive giant and the premier academic institution focuses on joint research initiatives, talent development, and collaborative innovation, particularly in the realm of Electric Vehicles (EV).
This strategic industry-academia partnership aligns with Mercedes-Benz’s Ambition 2039, an initiative aiming to achieve a net carbon-neutral fleet of new vehicles along the entire value chain and over the entire life cycle by 2039. With a vision of ‘solving global problems locally,’ the agreement emphasises addressing challenges in sustainable mobility through combined research efforts.
The collaboration aims to drive engineering transformation and undertake long-term research-oriented projects. Leveraging each other’s strengths, MBRDI and IISc will utilise existing capabilities, including infrastructure and academic programs. The partnership seeks to bridge the gap between industry and academia, fostering an environment conducive to cutting-edge innovation.
Manu Saale, Managing Director and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Research and Development India, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “Collaborations that help bridge the gap between industry and academia can enable the scientific research community to offer cutting-edge innovation that meets the evolving demands of the industry and customers. We are excited at the possibilities of working closely with the Indian Institute of Science and look forward to bringing the best of Indian engineering research to the global stage.”
Prof. Govindan Rangarajan, Director of the Indian Institute of Science, highlighted the potential impact of research and innovation in sustainable mobility and electric vehicles. He emphasised that such initiatives not only promote energy independence but also create economic opportunities. The partnership signifies a commitment to strengthening industry-academia engagements with the aim of making a significant impact in the years to come.
The Foundation for Science Innovation and Development (FSID) will play a pivotal role in managing IISc’s interactions with industry partners and facilitating access to the institution’s knowledge base and resources. The comprehensive scope of the two-year agreement includes the exchange of information, teaching materials, technological and scientific publications, seeking joint funding opportunities, publishing papers, generating and protecting intellectual property, and sponsoring research initiatives.