Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) has partnered with the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) to create a Mobility Engineering Laboratory. Future engineers will acquire the knowledge and skills required to create these novel mobility systems, with a focus on electrification of the powertrain system, as well as the electric vehicle testing through HIL simulation.
During the FY 2024 to 2027, TKM is planned to support the creation of the lab and acquire crucial tools and equipment including high-speed dynamometers, battery emulators, automation systems, and simulation software. Mechanical and Electrical Engineering are some of the departments that will benefit from the lab.
One of the major characteristics of the lab is the so-called HIL Test facility, which allows recording real signals during driving and using them in combination with simulation models for fast and cheap tests of engines, motors, and batteries under various driving conditions relevant to real-life scenarios. This effort points to shortening the development cycle while providing safety and performance.
Prof G Rangarajan, Director of IISc, stressed that increasing the level of cooperation between the partners would be a huge opportunity to develop innovative solutions and optimise electrified vehicle powertrains.
Among the positive social impacts of the lab that TKM’s Senior VP, Sudeep Dalvi highlighted were the ability of the lab to address issues such as climate change and advancing the cause of cleaner transport.
In addition to this lab, TKM is also committed to skill development and community support programmes that have changed over 2.3 million lives since 2001.
