Accenture LearnVantage and IIT Madras’s CAAR Collaborate to Skill Talent for Software-Defined Vehicles

• 
  
  Accenture LearnVantage’s Software-Defined Vehicle Academy and Centre of Excellence in Advanced Automotive Research at IIT Madras to jointly offer specialized skilling programs for automotive OEMs and GCCs

 

Accenture (NYSE: ACN) and Centre of Excellence in Advanced Automotive Research (CAAR), a research society established by Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras), are collaborating to offer specialized skilling programs through Accenture’s LearnVantage Software-Defined Vehicle (SDV) Academy.

 

The initiative targets automotive Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and Global Capability Centers (GCCs) looking to develop talent to build software-defined vehicles. It aims to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals in the SDV domain, bridging the gap between traditional automotive roles and the digital skills needed to develop automated driving technology, advanced driver assistance systems, electrical/electronic architecture, connectivity, and infotainment systems.

 

The curriculum, designed for automotive technology practitioners at OEMs and GCCs, includes domain-specific modules, interactive learning environments, and expert coaching delivered through a mix of self-paced and IIT Madras instructor-led sessions. The modules cover advanced Internet of Things, embedded systems and software, vehicle safety, communication protocols, cybersecurity, edge computing, cloud virtualization, and industry standards like AUTomotive Open System Architecture (AUTOSAR) and Automotive Software Process Improvement Capability Determination (ASPICE).    

 

According to an Accenture Research estimate, the software-defined digital services market is projected to reach USD 3.5 trillion and account for 40% of global automotive industry revenues by 2040. To bridge the skills gap, Accenture LearnVantage launched an SDV Academy that offers specialized training curriculum for the industry.

 

Kishore Durg, global lead of Accenture LearnVantage, said, “As vehicles transform into sophisticated software-defined machines, the automotive industry requires digital-native talent skilled in AI, machine learning, cybersecurity, and safety systems. Our collaboration with CAAR at IIT Madras is a game-changer, focused on transforming talent at scale for OEMs and GCCs in the sector. Together, we are committed to rapidly upskilling and reskilling talent to embrace technological advancements and develop the interdisciplinary skills needed for the SDV landscape.” 

 

CAAR aims to bridge the gap between academic research and commercial solutions in the automotive industry, providing advanced technology, skilled talent, and facilities.

 

Speaking about this collaboration, Prof. Krishnan Balasubramanian, Prof. in Charge of Center for Advanced Automotive Research (CAAR), IIT Madras, said, “The academia-industry partnership, enabled by the Center of Excellence CAAR is a unique model that creates a win-win for all parties and enables upskilling of the next generation workforce in new areas such as SDVs. We are delighted to be partnering with Accenture’s LearnVantage.”

 

Thiruppathy (Thiru) Srinivasan, Chief Executive Officer of CAAR, IIT Madras said, “The automotive industry is rapidly evolving with the adoption of electrification, connectivity, and advanced smart technologies. The high-growth software-defined vehicle space demands both new digital skills and a larger pool of skilled professionals, making upskilling a top priority. Our collaboration with Accenture LearnVantage offers a synergistic platform to bridge the talent gap by equipping professionals with the competencies needed to thrive and meet the industry’s evolving needs.”  

  

Accenture and IIT Madras have an existing collaboration through their joint Center of Excellence (CoE), which undertakes research projects and develops intellectual properties in autonomous robotics systems (ARS), industrial internet of things (IIoT), digital twin systems (DTS), and advanced automotive technologies. In addition, TalentSprint, a leader in deep tech education and now part of Accenture LearnVantage, offers a post graduate level advanced certification programme in Applied Data Science and Machine Learning in partnership with IIT Madras.

About Accenture

Accenture is a leading global professional services company that helps the world’s leading businesses, governments and other organizations build their digital core, optimize their operations, accelerate revenue growth and enhance citizen services—creating tangible value at speed and scale. We are a talent- and innovation-led company with approximately 791,000 people serving clients in more than 120 countries. Technology is at the core of change today, and we are one of the world’s leaders in helping drive that change, with strong ecosystem relationships. We combine our strength in technology and leadership in cloud, data and AI with unmatched industry experience, functional expertise and global delivery capability. Our broad range of services, solutions and assets across Strategy & Consulting, Technology, Operations, Industry X and Song, together with our culture of shared success and commitment to creating 360° value, enable us to help our clients reinvent and build trusted, lasting relationships. We measure our success by the 360° value we create for our clients, each other, our shareholders, partners and communities. Visit us at accenture.com.

 

ABOUT CAAR

Centre of Excellence in Advanced Automotive Research (CAAR) is a research society set up by IIT Madras, working with automotive industry, across the value chain. With a focus on translational research, CAAR, takes technology needs from Industry, seeks out suitable innovative concepts developed by research labs, such as IIT Madras, and others nationally and around the world, and develops them to maturity for industry adoption. CAAR, as an independent research society, works with its research and development resources, in partnership with research labs across the country and the world. Development of the Industry’s human and facility resources for fast and effective adoption of these emerging technologies, is facilitated with consulting for facility development, and skilling programs for industry professionals. CAAR’s efforts and infrastructure are funded through Industry memberships, CSR contributions, investment by government and other research funding agencies, and residuals from research projects funded by industry. Visit www.caar.tech for further information.

 

ABOUT IIT MADRAS

Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM) was established in 1959 by the Government of India as an ‘Institute of National Importance.’ The activities of the Institute in various fields of Science and Technology are carried out in 18 academic departments and several advanced interdisciplinary research academic centres. The Institute offers undergraduate and postgraduate programmes leading to B.Tech., M.Sc., M.B.A., M.Tech., M.S., and Ph.D., degrees in a variety of specialisations. IITM is a residential institute with more than 650 faculty and 10,000 students. Students from 18 countries are enrolled here. IITM fosters an active entrepreneurial culture with strong curricular support and through the IITM Incubation Cell.

Recognized as an Institution of Eminence (IoE) in 2019, IITM has been ranked No.1 in the ‘Overall’ Category for the sixth consecutive year in India Ranking 2024 released by National Institutional Ranking Framework, Ministry of Education, Govt. of India. The Institute has also been ranked No.1 in the ‘Engineering Institutions’ category in the same Rankings for nine consecutive years – from 2016 to 2024. In 2023, IIT Madras became the first IIT to establish an international Campus in Zanzibar, Tanzania called 'IIT Madras Zanzibar.

Entrepreneur India EV 2025 – Day 2: Funding Futures and Battery Innovation Drive India’s EV Ambitions Forward

* Collaborations, Capital & Chemistry: Shaping the Road Ahead for Electric Mobility~

Day 2 of Entrepreneur India EV 2025 unfolded with high-octane sessions, power-packed panels, and bold ideas aimed at accelerating India’s electric mobility revolution. The conversations revolved around the transformative potential of collaborative financing, battery innovation, and policy-powered disruption—clearly underlining that India’s EV dream is not just alive but charging forward.

The day commenced with an insightful keynote address titled “From 2 to 20 million: India’s Ambitious EV Journey” delivered by Mr. Mahesh Babu, Global CEO, Switch Mobility. Setting the tone, he stated, “India is not just adapting to change—we're driving it. From policy breakthroughs to grassroots innovation, the momentum in our mobility and technology sectors is unstoppable. But to reach the next milestone, we need more than just investment—we need intent, collaboration, and bold execution.”

Addressing the summit Ms. Ashita Marya, CEO, Franchise India said, “India’s EV journey is no longer about catching up—it’s about leading with purpose. What we witnessed today is a powerful convergence of innovation, finance, and entrepreneurship. At Franchise India, we believe the future belongs to those who not only build sustainable solutions but also scalable ecosystems. EV 2025 is a clear reflection of that vision taking shape.”

The keynote was followed by a forward-thinking panel discussion: “Unlocking the Future of EV Funding: Collaborative Funding, Technological Innovation, and Economic Impact.”
Ms. Vasudha Madhavan, Founder & CEO of Ostara Advisors, moderated the panel, which featured Mr. Kunal Mundra, CEO & Founder, Astranova Mobility, Mr. Nandagopal R, President & National Business Head - Green Finance, Shriram Finance, Ms. Akanksha Sharma, AVP, Green Finance, Namdev Finvest, Ms. Nehal Gupta, Founder & MD, AMU Leasing Pvt. Ltd, Mr. Dev Arora, Founder & CEO, Alt Mobility

In her opening remarks, Ms. Vasudha Madhavan observed, “In the last decade, we’ve watched India’s EV ecosystem evolve from an idea to an industry. But today, capital isn’t just a resource—it’s the missing building block that can either make or break innovation.”

Panelists emphasized the urgency of building trust, inclusivity, and accessibility within green finance. Ms. Akanksha Sharma noted, “Financial inclusivity isn’t just a metric—it’s a mindset… we must look beyond documents and credit scores and start funding intention. That’s how we unlock real, scalable impact.”

Ms. Nehal Gupta added, “Capital is our raw material—and yet accessing it remains our biggest challenge. It’s not enough to build assets; we need to build belief—in the model, in the mission, and in the future.”

A deep-dive panel on battery technology followed, exploring the theme: “Transforming Battery Manufacturing: Advanced Chemistries, AI, and Regulatory Dynamics.”
Moderated by Mr. Amartya Mukhopadhyay, Professor, IIT Bombay, the panel brought together industry pioneers Ms. Kavita Verma, CEO, Maxwell Energy Systems, Mr. Pramod Nanjundaswamy, VP & Global Delivery Head - Automotive & Mobility, Cyient, Mr. Guru Punghavan, CEO, Boson Cell

In a powerful insight, Mr. Guru Punghavan shared, “Our initial venture was to recycle end-of-life batteries and retrieve the salts. Now, we’ve vertically integrated into cell manufacturing, which lets us produce low-cost lithium-ion cells—potentially even more cost-effective than Chinese cells in the EV sector.”

As the event concluded its second day, Entrepreneur India EV 2025 continued to serve as a vital platform for thought leadership, innovation, and cross-sector collaboration. With impactful dialogues and clear calls to action, the expo reaffirmed India’s growing momentum toward sustainable mobility solutions.

With strong participation from industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators, Day 2 was not only engaging and insightful but also a strong affirmation that the EV Expo 2025 is a resounding success.

Odysse Electric and Indofast Energy Partner to Make SNAP “India’s Most Affordable Battery-Swapping Enabled Scooter”

Odysse Electric Vehicles, one of India’s fastest-growing premium electric vehicle manufacturers, has announced a strategic partnership with Indofast Energy – a Joint Venture of Indian Oil Corporation Ltd. and Sun Mobility. As a battery-swapping solutions provider, to integrate SUN Mobility’s advanced battery-swapping technology into its high-speed electric scooter, SNAP. This move enhances the SNAP’s accessibility by eliminating range anxiety and long charging times, making clean mobility more practical and affordable for urban riders. 

The battery-swapping-enabled SNAP is being introduced in New Delhi, Hyderabad, Bengaluru and Mumbai, with phased expansion to other cities in the pipeline. 

The SNAP is a high-speed electric scooter with a peak motor output of 2000 watts, a top speed of 55 km/h, and a max range of 100 km per swap. It features a waterproof IP 67-rated motor, a robust Indian chassis built for local road conditions, cruise control for enhanced comfort, and a CAN-enabled display that provides real-time battery and range updates. The SNAP delivers on both performance and convenience, making it ideal for today’s daily commuters. 

Introducing swappable battery technology, a game-changing innovation that puts convenience, savings, and freedom in the hands of everyday riders.

For retail users, the switch to electric has never been easier or more efficient. The benefits with swappable batteries, is simply swap out your depleted battery for a fully charged one at any nearby swap station in under two minutes. It’s fast, seamless, and perfect for your daily commute. 

Key Benefits for EV Two-Wheeler Day to Day Users are:

• Zero Downtime: Skip the charging wait just swap and go.

• Lower Upfront Costs: Pay for energy, not the battery.

• Greener Rides: Shared battery networks ensure optimal usage and lower carbon impact.

• Minimal Maintenance: Centralized battery management means less wear and tear for you.

• App-Controlled Convenience: Find the nearest swap station and track your usage with ease.

Whether you're a delivery professional, a daily commuter, or a weekend rider, swappable battery systems are here to make electric mobility truly effortless.

Already available in the Indian market, the SNAP will now be offered at INR 49, 999 (ex-Showroom)  with SUN Mobility’s Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) subscription model:

• Inr 999/month for 25 kWh

• Inr 2,499/month for 75 kWh

As swappable battery technology enters the spotlight Mr. Nemin Vora, CEO, Odysse Electric Vehicles, said “Our partnership with SUN Mobility began with the global deployment of the Vader SM, and we’re proud to now bring that success closer to home with the SNAP. By combining our rider-focused design with SUN Mobility’s battery-swapping platform, we’re breaking down critical barriers to EV adoption in India—making electric mobility more affordable, practical, and future-ready.” 

Mr. Rajat Malhan, Senior Vice President, Indofast Energy, added “After our successful international collaboration on the Vader SM, extending our partnership with Odysse Electric to the domestic market was a natural progression. Enabling the SNAP with our battery-swapping technology ensures that more Indian riders experience the convenience, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness that are essential for large-scale EV adoption.”

This partnership builds on Odysse Electric and SUN Mobility’s earlier collaboration for the Vader SM electric motorcycle, which was introduced in international markets with battery-swapping capabilities. With the SNAP, the two companies are now extending their shared vision of convenient, accessible, and sustainable electric mobility to the Indian commuter segment.

Join the movement towards smarter, more sustainable transport. Discover how swappable batteries are transforming the way India rides.

EDII Celebrates MSME Day 2025, Reinforces Commitment to Inclusive and Sustainable Growth

On the occasion of the 25th MSME Day, Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDII), Ahmedabad, celebrated the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit of India’s Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises, acknowledging their role as key drivers of grassroots development and national progress by organising ‘MSME Talk’ at its campus.

The highlight of the day was the ‘MSME Talk’ delivered by Shri R.D. Barhat, Joint Commissioner of Industries, Government of Gujarat, on the theme: ‘Treading a Sustainable Growth Path for MSMEs Amidst Changing Business Dynamics.’ Also present on the occasion was Dr. Sunil Shukla, Director General, EDII.

Addressing MSME the gathering, Shri Barhat emphasised the pivotal role MSMEs play in India’s economy. He stressed the importance of sustainable growth in the face of digital disruption, global uncertainties, and environmental concerns. He said “Sustainable growth for MSMEs, must be inclusive, responsible, and innovation-driven. It is essential that MSMEs pursue economic expansion without compromising environmental and social standards. By embracing adaptability, innovation, and strategic policy support, MSMEs can secure their future and drive India’s development agenda.” 

Over the past year, EDII has conducted more than 2,200 training programmes across the country, reaching over one lakh entrepreneurs under the ESDP supported by M/o MSME, Government of India, with a strong emphasis on existing and potential entrepreneurs.  Through its innovation-led residential programmes, MSME promoters have gained exposure to cutting-edge fields like Business Analytics, Robotics, Agro-Processing, and Government e-Marketplace (GeM) operations.

In addition, the institution launched capacity building programme for MSMEs on the occasion of MSME Day in Maharashtra for women led enterprises on the occasion of MSME day under the Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) programme supported by Maharashtra Small Scale Industries Development Corporation Limited (MSSIDC).  EDII has been working closely with states like Maharashtra and Goa to support Udyam-registered MSMEs and Self-Help Groups (SHGs). The focused training modules under this initiative cover GeM, Intellectual Property Rights, financial management, and operations helping entrepreneurs grow sustainably.

Dr. Sunil Shukla, Director General, EDII, said, “MSMEs are much more than just economic units, they represent innovation, resilience, and self-reliance for millions across India. At EDII, our focus is on strengthening this vital backbone by equipping entrepreneurs with the right skills, tools, and mindset for sustainable growth. Through skilling, mentoring, and infrastructure support, we aim to ensure that every entrepreneur, regardless of their background and location has a fair chance to succeed in today’s evolving economic landscape.” 

EDII’s contributions to infrastructure development are equally impactful. As a Project Management Consultant under the SIDBI Cluster Development Fund, the Institute had supported SIDBI in appraising infrastructure development projects worth ₹10,000 crore across 21 states during last 3 years. The project was instrumental in boosting MSME ecosystems and supporting large-scale job creation.

Also, Institution is implementing MSE-CDP scheme to set up Common Facility Centres (CFCs) in key industry clusters across Gujarat adds to its grassroots-level impact.   

With a footprint spanning the length and breadth of India, EDII continues to advance India’s entrepreneurial journey, fuelling the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat through capacity-building, innovation, and inclusive development.

PNB Strengthens MSME Ecosystem with Comprehensive Digital and Traditional Lending Solutions

Punjab National Bank (PNB), India’s leading public sector bank, reinforces its position as the premier financial partner for India's Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector.

Recognising MSMEs as the backbone of India's economy, PNB has strategically developed a comprehensive MSME banking ecosystem that combines cutting-edge digital solutions with traditional relationship banking, ensuring accessible credit for every entrepreneurial dream.

MSMEs can benefit from a variety of exclusive offerings: -

• PNB Innovate Scheme: Financing Start-ups in MSME, Agriculture and Allied Services with credit facility up to ₹50 cr.

• PNB Growth Plus: Customised financial solutions for MSMEs with no requirement of stock statement and any other financial paper, NIL RTGS/NEFT charges, and credit facility up to ₹2.00 cr.

• PNB GST Express: Assessment based on GST return for all category of borrowers (manufacturing, trading, services) with credit facility up to ₹10.00 cr and no financial paper required.

• MSME Prime Plus: Comprehensive financing for all MSME units with credit facility up to ₹100 cr and concession in ROI & service charges.

• Digi MSME Loans: Paperless lending up to ₹25 lakh for existing as well as new customers through digital processing.

• e-GST Express: Digital MSME loan up to ₹ 5 Cr based on GST returns with CGTMSE guarantee available and concession in ROI and processing fee.

Government Partnership Schemes:

• e-PM Vishwakarma: Credit support to artisans or craftsperson’s secured by CGTMSE with NIL margin requirement.

• PNB e-Mudra Scheme: Credit facility up to ₹20 lakh under Tarun Plus secured by CGTMSE with tiered financing options.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Ashok Chandra, MD & CEO, PNB said: "On this International MSME Day, June 27, 2025, I want to take a moment to recognize the vital role Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises play in driving our economy. MSMEs are the backbone of innovation, job creation, and community growth, and as their trusted banking partner, we have the privilege and responsibility to fuel their success."

Customers can also explore these exclusive offerings by visiting their nearest PNB branch, accessing the PNB ONE App, or contacting the bank's dedicated helplines.

Aspire For Her Hosts SheExports in Bengaluru: Global Insights, Local Inspiration

Aspire For Her, in collaboration with SEED and powered by Payoneer, successfully hosted the SheExports cohort in Bengaluru. SheExports is a flagship initiative to empower Indian women entrepreneurs for global expansion.

Payoneer (Nasdaq: PAYO), the global financial technology company empowering the world’s small and medium-sized businesses to transact, do business, and grow globally. Aspire For Her is a community-first organization that aims to add a million women to the workforce by 2025 and 10 million by 2030.

Held at Yutori, Safina Plaza, the event themed "Ready to Scale Globally?" gathered over 50 women entrepreneurs to explore digital, collaborative, and cross-border pathways to scale. Aspire For Her is adding a million women to the economy by 2025 and their focus on women entrepreneurs has won multiple awards including from the UN Women.

A high-impact panel featured:

Andrew Collister is Consul at the Australian Consulate-General in Bengaluru, and a career officer with the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). He is a champion for Australia as a trade destination and is a strong supporter of women’s entrepreneurship  

Juhi Santani, Founder, Retail Design Solutions has been working for over 2 decades across 1500 projects, 200 brands and 3 continents in creating inspiring retail and hospitality spaces. 

Pavithra YS is the Founder and Managing Director of Vindhya e-Infomedia, a unique Impact Sourcing Service Provider known for its innovative and sustainable business model that merges profitability with inclusive employment in the IT and BPO sectors. With over 2,600 diverse employees across 5 delivery centers in India, Pavithra has won numerous awards and accolades for recruiting persons with disability, and other marginalised pools of talent.

The panel delivered actionable insights on inclusive leadership, scaling strategies, and unlocking global opportunities for women-led ventures.

Madhura DasGupta Sinha, Founder & CEO, Aspire For Her, said:

"SheExports is more than global access—it’s about shifting mindsets. Today’s event proved the power of collaboration in building a global launchpad for women."

Gaurav Shisodia, Vice President, Payoneer - India, added, “Building on the remarkable success of SheExports Season 1, where we empowered over 120 women entrepreneurs across 18 states and witnessed 17% of women leaders expanding globally, Payoneer is proud to continue supporting women-led SMBs in their global expansion journey.

For more information and upcoming events, visit: www.aspireforher.com

About Aspire for Her

Aspire For Her (AFH) is a unique organisation with the vision to add a million women to the workforce by 2025, 10 million by 2030. AFH motivates women to enter and stay in the workforce by using the power of communities and networks. AFH has built 24 communities using its mindset-change model including mentors and role models, courses, cohorts and learning, career previews, and community support. They partner with SEED, India’s leading integrated CSR and social intervention agency to create and deliver programs to unleash the economic potential of Indian women.