The Centre for Electric Mobility (CEM) at SRM Institute of Science & Technology in Kattankulathur, near Chennai, is creating a collaborative environment between academia and major automotive industry players by establishing dedicated innovation spaces on campus.

In addition to research, the centre prepares students for careers in the automotive sector, with many securing jobs from companies they collaborate with during their projects.

CEM is actively investigating hydrogen as a clean energy solution, focusing on the development of systems for hydrogen generation, storage, and vehicle integration.

Spanning 27,000 square feet, CEM is designed to bridge research, startup support, and industry partnerships specifically in the realm of electric mobility.

Dr. C Bharatiraja, head of CEM, emphasizes the centre's capability to conduct nearly 80% of the tests required by national certification bodies, aiding companies in refining their products before formal validation.

The centre is also advancing autonomous vehicle technologies, including mobile robots, with the goal of progressing towards fully driverless cars.

Research at CEM encompasses various engineering disciplines and includes a focus on cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and system-on-chip technologies, equipping students for future mobility challenges.

CEM is exploring alternatives to rare-earth magnets and developing advanced motor technologies, emphasizing practical experimentation alongside theoretical learning.

Stellantis, a prominent global automaker, is collaborating with SRM students to address complex engineering challenges and test innovations, such as a wireless charging system that has reached Technology Readiness Level 7.

The centre has secured significant funding, including INR 15 crore from SRMIST and INR 20 crore from the Central Government, to support research on future mobility technologies.

CEM provides support to electric vehicle startups throughout their development journey, offering technical assistance and industry connections to help turn concepts into viable products.

Operating on a three-tier model, CEM focuses on research and development, startup incubation, and joint industry R&D labs to tackle real-world challenges in electric vehicle technologies.

CEM has established partnerships with several renowned automotive companies through Memoranda of Understanding, further enhancing industry-academia collaborations.