logo
Hyundai India unveils HTWO Innovation Centre at IIT Madras to propel green hydrogen R&D

Hyundai India unveils HTWO Innovation Centre at IIT Madras to propel green hydrogen R&D

Time of India09-07-2025
The upcoming 65,000 sq. ft. centre, to be located within the Discovery Campus of IIT Madras at Thaiyur, Chennai, marks a significant milestone in
Hyundai
's ₹100 crore commitment to foster hydrogen innovation and sustainability in India.
Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL), in collaboration with IIT Madras and Guidance Tamil Nadu, unveiled the design of its Hyundai
HTWO
Innovation Centre—an advanced research and development facility dedicated to green hydrogen technology. The upcoming 65,000 sq. ft. centre, to be located within the Discovery Campus of IIT Madras at Thaiyur, Chennai, marks a significant milestone in Hyundai's ₹100 crore commitment to foster hydrogen innovation and sustainability in India.
Unveiled by Thiru. T.R.B. Rajaa, Minister for Industries, Investment Promotion & Commerce, Government of Tamil Nadu, the facility will serve as a hub for advanced computational labs, pilot-level test rigs, and containerised demonstrators for industrial-scale hydrogen products, stated the company. Developed in part through HMIL's CSR arm, Hyundai Motor India Foundation (HMIF), the initiative underscores the company's vision to power India's clean energy transition.
Unsoo Kim, MD of HMIL, said, 'This initiative reflects Hyundai's commitment to 'Make in India' and our long-term vision to build scalable, affordable, and sustainable hydrogen solutions for the future.'
Collaborative Platform for National Hydrogen Goals
The HTWO Innovation Centre is developed in part through HMIL's CSR arm, Hyundai Motor India Foundation (HMIF). It is designed to be a collaborative platform uniting industry, academia, R&D institutions, and policymakers. Prof. V. Kamakoti, Director, IIT Madras, emphasised the centre's role in contributing to India's Net Zero targets by 2070, calling it a cornerstone for 'Atmanirbhar Bharat in the hydrogen sector.'
Aligned with the Government of India's energy independence vision for 2047, the centre aims to develop digital twins of hydrogen infrastructure, improve electrolyser and fuel cell technologies, and enable pilot-scale evaluations. The facility also seeks to bridge talent gaps by nurturing a skilled hydrogen workforce and expanding the hydrogen value chain through public-private partnerships.
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

‘Integrate-2025': CII Mysuru to host MSME buyer-seller meet
‘Integrate-2025': CII Mysuru to host MSME buyer-seller meet

The Hindu

time16 minutes ago

  • The Hindu

‘Integrate-2025': CII Mysuru to host MSME buyer-seller meet

The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), Mysuru zone, is organising 'Integrate 2025', a two-day buyer-seller meet, industrial exhibition and conference on August 21 and 22 at the Jagannatha Centre for Art & Culture, Mysuru. The initiative promotes business sustainability through stronger local procurement linkages, MSME collaboration, and sound supply-chain management. Nearly 200 delegates, including MSMEs, startups, PSUs, large enterprises, policymakers, and ecosystem partners from Karnataka and neighbouring regions are expected to attend. Sam Cherian, convener, CII Karnataka MSME Panel; Nagaraj Gargeshwari, chairman, CII, Mysuru zone; and other office-bearers of CII addressed a press conference here on Wednesday to share details of the event. 'Integrate has a long history in Mysuru — the first edition was held in 1998. The 2025 edition builds on this legacy, and is positioned as a game changer for Mysuru, helping attract more industries while enabling MSMEs to showcase manufacturing and service capabilities to national and global buyers. The event aims to support the sustainable growth of Mysuru's MSMEs and enhance the region's capacity to serve global demand,' a CII release said. Aligned with Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India, 'Integrate 2025' provides a structured platform that fosters regional value chains, deepens vendor-development linkages and improves market visibility for MSMEs and startups, the release stated. Anchoring the effort in a Tier-2 city like Mysuru helps decentralise industrial growth, unlock local sourcing synergies, and support balanced economic development, it added. Mr. Gargeshwari said 'Integrate 2025' is a practical platform to convert conversations into contracts, strengthening local procurement, vendor development, and sound supply-chain management. Over two days, the programme will have sessions on smart practices, success stories, MSME integration into global value chains; governance, sustainability & leadership; women-led MSMEs and ESG drivers; energy transition & quality; technology adoption; Ease of Doing Business & legal perspectives; MSME schemes & funding; and a large OEM supply-chain dialogue on vendor development and business opportunities aimed at driving MSME growth in Mysuru. Industry visitors are encouraged to explore the exhibition, which will showcase products, solutions and capabilities from MSMEs, startups, and emerging enterprises. Startups and women entrepreneurs are especially encouraged to connect with buyers, present innovations and explore market linkages.

Forging the shield: How SMPP is leading India's defence revolution
Forging the shield: How SMPP is leading India's defence revolution

First Post

time2 hours ago

  • First Post

Forging the shield: How SMPP is leading India's defence revolution

With its roots in deep engineering and a clear mission to strengthen India's self-reliance in defence, SMPP's journey is a testament to the spirit of Atmanirbhar Bharat In the rugged terrains of Kashmir, along the high-altitude borders of Ladakh, and across the dense forests of central India, Indian soldiers face grave risks every day. Amidst these dangers, a silent yet robust layer of protection stands between life and death: state-of-the-art bulletproof gear. Behind much of this armour is one Indian company quietly revolutionising defence manufacturing—SMPP Ltd. With its roots in deep engineering and a clear mission to strengthen India's self-reliance in defence, SMPP's journey is a testament to the spirit of Atmanirbhar Bharat. From being a pioneer in ballistic protection to venturing into drones and large-calibre ammunition, the company, led by its CEO Mr. Ashish Kansal, has carved a remarkable trajectory, now culminating in its latest win: the Emergency Procurement 5 (EP-5) order from the Ministry of Defence. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The EP-5 Milestone: More Than Just a Contract SMPP's recent EP-5 order involves the supply of 27,700 advanced Bullet Proof Jackets (BPJs) and 11,700 Ballistic Helmets—gear that's capable of withstanding the most lethal armour-piercing (AP) rounds and hard steel-core bullets. Unlike conventional protective gear, these jackets are tested to take six AP shots on a single monolithic plate—far exceeding global benchmarks, which typically require resistance to just one or two such impacts. More from Business How Indian fintech startups are driving Malaysia's UPI-like digital payments revolution This order is not just a business win. It is symbolic of India's maturing defence ecosystem. 'These products are 100% IDDM—Indian Designed, Developed and Manufactured,' says Mr. Kansal. 'They reflect not only our commitment to our soldiers but also to the Government of India's vision of a self-reliant nation.' The helmets included in the order use a patented design—granted in India and the U.S.—that offers protection from hard-core rifle rounds, a capability rarely seen even in elite global defence gear. 'A soldier can often survive a body wound, but a bullet to the head is almost always fatal,' explains Kansal. 'That's where our helmet makes all the difference.' Handover Ceremony of 186,138 Nos. Bullet Proof Jackets to Indian Ministry of Defence Building on Three Decades of Innovation Founded over 30 years ago by an IIT graduate, Dr. SC Kansal, SMPP began as an engineering firm and gradually emerged as a specialist in personal armour systems. Its first vertical—armour protection for personnel and platforms—was quickly followed by a second: the manufacturing of artillery ammunition. Carrying forward the legacy under the leadership of Mr. Ashish Kansal, himself an IITian, SMPP is now venturing into a third vertical, drones and counter-drone systems, with several products already tested and cleared by Army Headquarters. 'Our vision is to work across as many critical technologies as possible,' says Kansal. 'Whether it's soldier protection, firepower, or new-age surveillance, we want to be a catalyst in India's march toward Atmanirbharta.' Indeed, SMPP has already supplied over 1.86 lakh bulletproof jackets and 2 lakh ballistic helmets to the Indian Army and paramilitary forces. Its past victories include sweeping all four contracts under the earlier Emergency Procurement 4 (EP-4) initiative—ranging from jackets and helmets to ballistic shields, including a customised version of helmets for Sikh soldiers, a first in Indian defence manufacturing. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The Science Behind the Shield What sets SMPP apart is its relentless focus on research and innovation. With a strong in-house R&D team, the company is constantly working to stay ahead of evolving battlefield threats. 'Our gear is not static,' explains Kansal. 'We update based on changing ammunition threats, soldier comfort, and operational requirements.' Take, for example, their use of CaraSTOP-B4C—an in-house manufactured boron carbide ceramic, among the hardest materials known to science. This ceramic is not only used in SMPP's ballistic gear but also in India's major military helicopters and globally deployed transport aircraft. To ensure uniform quality, each batch of this ceramic undergoes a proprietary X-ray screening process—designed to detect microscopic defects like air gaps, internal cracks, or low-density pockets. 'It took years of data and experimentation to get it right,' says Kansal. 'But we're now confident that what we produce meets the highest standards—Indian or international.' SMPP's gear also meets and exceeds global norms, including BIS Level 6 and NIJ Level III+, offering protection against AP rounds and AK-47 hard steel-core bullets. Many of these innovations are protected under patents; out of 17 patent filings, nine have already been granted, including the game-changing ballistic helmet design. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD A Truly Indian Defence Story For Kansal, SMPP is not just a business; it's a mission rooted in national pride. 'Atmanirbhar Bharat is not just a slogan for us,' he says. 'It's our daily mantra.' SMPP's achievements in the 'Make in India' story go well beyond domestic contracts. Its exports span over 25 countries, including Armenia, Colombia, the Philippines, France, Germany, Brazil, and the USA. Notable among these is the supply of 60,000 ballistic helmets and 45,000 bulletproof plates to Armenia, and a major vehicle armouring project for Colombia—both accomplished with uncompromising quality and precision. And SMPP is not stopping there. A sprawling 800-acre facility is under construction in Himachal Pradesh for the indigenous manufacturing of large-calibre ammunition. The company has already secured industrial licenses for tanks, artillery, mortars, and infantry-support weapons. 'This move will help India reduce imports in a sector that provides strategic deterrence,' says Kansal. Hosted General Saïd Chanegriha, Chief of Staff of the People's National Army, Algeria Innovation Through Inclusion SMPP's commitment to inclusivity is also visible in its product design. For instance, its specially developed ballistic helmets for Sikh soldiers reflect a deep understanding of operational comfort and cultural sensitivities. 'The design includes a discreet rise to accommodate the turban comfortably while blending seamlessly with standard combat attire,' explains Kansal. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD This philosophy extends to all of SMPP's R&D: protection without compromise on comfort. From dynamic weight distribution systems to high-buoyancy jackets for riverine and amphibious operations, the company's products are made to adapt to the unique physical and tactical demands of Indian forces. The Roadblocks Ahead—and the Way Forward Despite its successes, Kansal acknowledges the systemic challenges that still plague the Indian defence industry—especially for MSMEs. 'Sustaining defence manufacturing is not easy,' he says. 'Without long-term contracts, the business becomes cyclical. The single-buyer nature of defence procurement means every new order comes with a fresh round of trials and tests, often in complex, highly competitive environments.' He believes the solution lies in deeper collaboration between the public and private sectors. 'We've built a vast ecosystem of defence PSUs over the decades. It's time to leverage their scale and our agility together. The goal should not be who leads the project, but how to co-create the best, most competitive product globally.' STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Welcoming Mr. Salvador Melchor B. Mison, Jr., Undersecretary for Acquisition and Resource Management, Department of National Defense, Philippines The Journey So Far, and the Road Ahead For Kansal, there have been many defining moments—the accolades from Defence Ministers, the patents granted, and the international wins. But if he had to choose one, it would be the landmark contract to supply 1,86,138 bulletproof jackets to the Indian Army. 'That changed everything for us. It was our moonshot.' As he reflects on the company's journey, his thoughts turn to the next generation. 'My message to young engineers and innovators is simple,' he says, quoting Robert Frost: 'The woods are lovely, dark and deep, but I have promises to keep, and miles to go before I sleep.' 'With emerging fields like AI, quantum computing, and robotics redefining warfare, India needs you. But we also need to make the system faster—less red tape, more responsiveness—if we are to truly unlock our nation's potential.' Conclusion: Towards Viksit Bharat As India celebrates its 78th Independence Day, companies like SMPP are laying the foundation for a secure, self-reliant, and technologically advanced future. In a world where the lines between warzones and peacetimes are increasingly blurred, SMPP's mission is clear: empower our soldiers, strengthen national defence, and build for the world, from India. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Because in the fight for sovereignty, the greatest weapon is self-belief. And the strongest armour is the one built at home.

Volkswagen Tayron 7-seater SUV spotted again: Check expected price, features, launch details of Kia Carens, Tata Safari rival
Volkswagen Tayron 7-seater SUV spotted again: Check expected price, features, launch details of Kia Carens, Tata Safari rival

Economic Times

time4 hours ago

  • Economic Times

Volkswagen Tayron 7-seater SUV spotted again: Check expected price, features, launch details of Kia Carens, Tata Safari rival

Synopsis The Volkswagen Tayron, a 7-seater SUV, has been spotted undisguised on Indian roads, signaling an imminent launch likely by early 2026. Featuring design cues from the Tiguan R-Line and based on the MQB EVO platform, it boasts advanced tech like a digital instrument cluster and ADAS. It is expected to be powered by a 2. Volkswagen Tayron expected price and launch details The Volkswagen Tayron, a 7-seater SUV expected to enter the Indian market, has been spotted once again on local roads. This time, the SUV was seen fully undisguised, carrying a TC number plate, according to an auto enthusiast who shared the images. The sightings indicate Volkswagen is moving closer to launching the model in India, likely by early recent images show the rear of the Tayron clearly, highlighting wrap-around tail lights that resemble the Tiguan R-Line variant. The main distinguishing feature is the Tayron badge on the tailgate. While only the rear of the vehicle was visible in the spyshots, the SUV's design appears consistent with the international version sold abroad. Industry experts suggest that the Tayron will bring Volkswagen's global 7-seater design language to India, offering a modern look and spacious interiors suitable for expected price of the Volkswagen Tayron 7-seater SUV in India varies across different sources. Estimates range from ₹35 lakh to ₹65 lakh (ex-showroom), depending on the variant and upcoming Volkswagen 7-seater SUV will be based on the MQB EVO platform, the same used in other global models. Although full interior details have not been officially revealed, reports indicate that the Tayron may feature a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, level 2 ADAS, HUD, ventilated and powered front seats, and other comfort and safety features commonly seen in premium SUVs. These features aim to position the Tayron as a competitive offering in India's growing 7-seater SUV segment, which includes rivals from Hyundai, Kia, and the hood, the Tayron is expected to be powered by a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine. Transmission duties are likely to be handled by a 7-speed DSG unit, with the possibility of an all-wheel-drive (AWD) configuration for better handling and stability. This setup could appeal to buyers looking for both city driving convenience and occasional off-road has not officially confirmed the launch date for the Tayron in India. However, analysts expect the SUV to make its debut by early 2026. The 7-seater SUV market in India has been expanding steadily, and Volkswagen's entry with the Tayron could strengthen its position among family-focused buyers seeking premium features and modern Tayron's launch will compete with popular models such as the Hyundai Alcazar, Kia Carens, and Tata Safari, all of which are already established in India's 7-seater SUV segment. With global design, advanced technology, and flexible seating, the Tayron could be a strong contender in the segment.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store