XLRI Delhi-NCR Signs MoU With ATS India For Automobile Design School
- By MT Bureau
- September 05, 2024
INDEA has formed a strategic collaboration with ATS India (Automotive Test Systems), operating under the auspices of the XLRI Centre for car Design & Management (XADM), India's first school specifically dedicated to automobile design and management. This partnership represents a critical turning point in the school's development. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by Avik Chattopadhyay, Chairperson of XADM and Founder of INDEA, and S Ramanathan, Managing Director of ATS India.
In keeping with its pioneering role in the field of automotive education, ATS will supervise the whole project management process as part of the MoU. This includes designing, setting up and commissioning the proposed design studio and prototyping facility within the school. The duties include defining the necessary servers, software, hardware and other equipment as well as the civil infrastructure, which includes the water and energy supplies. In order to guarantee ongoing operational effectiveness, the MoU also calls for the selection of premier suppliers and partners in addition to long-term maintenance agreements. The goal of this partnership is to increase capacity building and knowledge sharing between the two companies, all the while maximising resource utilisation for testing and research.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Fr K S Casimir, Director, XLRI Delhi-NCR, said, “The partnership with ATS is a significant step in the direction of building a world-class design facility as part of the design school. We value their expertise and experience. Together, we will bring the best brands in the business as partners in setting up an institution for the greater good that will do the nation proud.”
Avik Chattopadhyay, Chairperson – XADM and Founder – INDEA, added, “To create a global benchmark, one needs the best domain experts, and we at XADM are privileged to have ATS as one at the initial stages of the setting up of India's first dedicated automobile design school. They will get the best from across the world for the design and prototyping facilities that are core to the school. Ramanathan and the ATS team share our dream and commitment towards building a world-class institution.”
S Ramanathan, MD, ATS India, commented, “The setting up of the state-of-the-art centre focusing on Automotive Design Management by XLRI is a first in India. It’ll give an opportunity for the students to learn the nuances of designing and developing as well as managing an automotive ‘protoshop’. They’ll get to learn design management, parts manufacturing, vehicle integration as well as basic testing and validation. It will benefit the industry in a big way, especially start-ups who can come and use these facilities for their product development. We expect this project to set up a great example of industry-academia collaboration in the automotive space and are really happy to be associated with such a prestigious project.”
Taiwanese Suppliers To Showcase Automotive Solutions At AAPEX 2026
- By MT Bureau
- October 22, 2026
Over 200 suppliers from Taiwan will participate in AAPEX 2026, North America’s leading automotive aftermarket exhibition, scheduled to take place at the Venetian Expo in Las Vegas from 3rd November to 5th November.
Presented by the International Trade Administration and the Taiwan External Trade Development Council, the delegation will exhibit under the Team Taiwan banner at Booth V19622.
The display features products across categories including components, electronics, lighting, tools and collision repair parts. The showcase incorporates an industry scenario zone, digital kiosks, and scheduled presentations.
The events during the exhibition include an opening ceremony, networking sessions, procurement meetings and pitch demonstrations focusing on maintenance equipment, diagnostics and advanced driver assistance systems.
Image for representational purposes only.
Indraprastha Gas Deploys Nawgati Automated Safety Framework For CNG Stations
- By MT Bureau
- October 21, 2026
Indraprastha Gas has introduced Nawgati's artificial intelligence (AI) vehicle recognition and safety verification system at fuel stations in Delhi.
The rollout was inaugurated at the Shantipath CNG facility by Sanjay Kumar Singh, Joint Chief Controller of Explosives for the North Circle at the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO). The initiative implements a three-pronged compliance framework to verify compressed natural gas cylinder hydrotest validity before refuelling.
The system incorporates the consumer-facing Nawgati app, the Aaveg compliance application used by queue marshals and automated license plate recognition cameras linked to digital LED displays and public announcement systems. Non-compliant vehicles with expired certifications trigger automated alerts to station staff to halt refuelling operations.
Ambuj Singh, Senior Vice President of Business and Operations, Nawgati, said, "Fuel retail safety relies on robust enforcement and friction-free technology. Having senior leadership inaugurate this rollout at IGL Shantipath is a testament to the urgency and impact of our solution. By combining our proprietary technology, the Aaveg Compliance app for queue marshals, and consumer-facing transparency through the Nawgati app, we are helping operators eliminate manual blind spots, prevent unverified cylinders from refuelling, and set a new benchmark for smart infrastructure safety."
The safety deployment is accompanied by public awareness campaigns across media channels and operational protocols implemented by Indraprastha Gas to support national energy targets and infrastructure expansion.
AXOR Introduces Agera Full-Face Helmet With Integrated Aerodynamic Rear Spoiler
- By MT Bureau
- October 19, 2026
AXOR, the premium helmet brand from Vega Auto, has launched the Agera, a full-face helmet designed with aerodynamic engineering and ventilation features for high-speed riding.
The helmet features a shell profile with an integrated rear spoiler engineered to manage airflow, reduce aerodynamic drag, and lower neck strain at high speeds. The rear spoiler functions as an integrated exhaust vent to assist with thermal management and interior airflow extraction. The product will be retailed in domestic markets and exported across AXOR's international distribution network.
The Agera features a double D-ring retention system and an Emergency Quick Release System for cheek pad removal during emergency situations. The helmet is equipped with an optically correct, scratch-resistant, UV-protected Revo outer visor featuring a tool-free quick-release mechanism and Pinlock anti-fog compatibility, alongside an integrated internal smoke sun visor for glare reduction.
Uttam Chandak, Joint MD and Head of Research and Development, AXOR, said, "Aerodynamic engineering plays a critical role in the overall riding experience, particularly at higher speeds. With the Agera, our focus has been on developing a shell profile that manages airflow effectively. By combining aerodynamic considerations with functional ventilation and a race-inspired design, we aim to deliver a helmet that reflects our continued focus on engineering-led product development."
SMK Helmets Expands Agnar Range With Agnar Revv Decal Variant At INR 6,700
- By MT Bureau
- October 19, 2026
SMK Helmets has introduced a new graphic option, named Agnar Revv, to its Agnar full-face helmet lineup. First launched in 2024, the Agnar range features a graphic design inspired by the sweep of an engine tachometer, offered across six colour combinations in gloss and matte finishes.
The Agnar Revv is built using two distinct outer shell moulds rather than a single shell size with varied foam padding, maintaining outer shell proportions across head sizes from XS to XXL.
The helmet features an Energy Impact Resistant Thermoplastic outer shell paired with a multi-density EPS liner, carrying safety certifications for ECE 22.06, DOT and ISI standards. The ventilation system incorporates 21 stainless steel vents connected via internal airflow channels designed to manage thermal regulation and wind noise.
Varun Chopra, Vice President of IT and Creative Design, SMK, said, "Since its introduction, the Agnar has become one of the key products in our portfolio, reflecting our focus on combining distinctive design with certified safety, a sturdy build, and high-airflow ventilation. With the Agnar Revv, we are elevating the lineup by introducing vibrant decals with a fresh identity. Modern riders expect new global drops from a brand like ours, and the Agnar Revv bridges aggressive aesthetics with uncompromised daily comfort. We believe it will further strengthen our product portfolio and appeal to riders who demand bold styling without compromising on real world protection."
The helmet comes with a dual visor setup featuring a scratch-resistant outer visor with a quick-release mechanism, a retractable internal sun visor and a Pinlock 30 anti-fog lens supplied as standard in India.
The helmet incorporates a removable and washable hypoallergenic interior liner alongside a double D-ring chin strap closure. Designed at SMK's European studio and produced at its manufacturing facilities in India, the Agnar Revv is priced at INR 6,700 through authorised retail outlets, with online sales availability scheduled for a later release.
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