The Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) and COEP Technological University have signed a Letter of Intent to set up an Advanced Ergonomics and Human Factors Research Centre (AEHFRC) at COEP Tech’s Research and Innovation Park in Chikhali, Pune. The centre will be the first of its kind in India, focused on designing technologies around the physical needs of Indian users. The project involves a planned investment of ₹105 crore.
Spread across about 38,000 sq ft, the facility aims to reduce India’s dependence on European ergonomics technology. In the first phase, over two to three years, it will set up facilities for posture evaluation, seating comfort, human biomechanics and field-of-vision studies. The full-scale centre will follow over the next four to five years.
Planned as a National Centre of Excellence, the AEHFRC will serve industries such as automotive, defence, aerospace, railways, agriculture, consumer products and construction. ARAI will focus on developing Indian ergonomics standards, body measurement databases and new testing methods. The centre will also offer training and certification programmes.
“ARAI aims to create a national ecosystem that advances research, develops indigenous capabilities, and supports industry in creating products and systems that are better suited to Indian users,” said Dr. Reji Mathai, Director, ARAI.
Prof. Sunil Bhirud, Vice-Chancellor, COEP Technological University, said the centre will contribute to Indian standards, indigenous technologies and a skilled workforce.