279
/
2
Min Read
Cybersecurity has emerged as one of the most critical challenges in the development of smart mobility solutions, experts said at the recently concluded Symposium on International Automotive Technology (SIAT) 2026, held at the Pune International Exhibition and Convention Centre (PIECC), Moshi.
Addressing the closing ceremony, Dr Reji Mathai, Director, Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), said cybersecurity was highlighted as a major concern during expert deliberations at the 19th edition of SIAT. He noted that the theme of SIAT 2026, “Innovative Pathways to Safe and Sustainable Mobility,” brought sharp focus on the risks and complexities associated with connected and intelligent mobility systems.
Dr Mathai said other key challenges discussed at the symposium included the validation of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) through high-level simulation, the development of robust charging infrastructure, range anxiety and the affordability of smart mobility solutions. He emphasised that India would need to adopt a balanced mix of technologies, including hybrids alongside full electric vehicles, smart grid integration to optimise charging time and reduce costs, and vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication.
V2X technologies, enabled by 5G and dedicated radio systems, allow vehicles to exchange data with other vehicles, infrastructure and networks, supporting improved road safety, traffic management and the advancement of autonomous driving. Dr Mathai also stressed the importance of policy-level collaboration to help India achieve its carbon neutrality goals by 2030.
Speaking at the event, Minister of State for Heavy Industries and Steel Bhupathi Raju Srinivasa Varma said safer, cleaner and greener mobility solutions are essential as India progresses towards becoming a $5 trillion economy. He highlighted ARAI’s critical role in certification, research and technology support for various national initiatives.
The symposium also underscored the need to build a strong indigenous automotive technology ecosystem under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, with increased use of local resources to develop solutions tailored to Indian conditions.
SIAT 2026 witnessed participation from more than 2,500 delegates and attracted around 13,000 visitors at the accompanying expo. The event featured 64 technical sessions, eight plenary presentations and two panel discussions. A total of 248 technical papers, including 33 international submissions, were presented and evaluated across 64 concurrent sessions by over 80 judges. Tata Motors received the Best Paper Award.
Senior industry and institutional leaders present at the event included Vikram Kasbekar, Executive Director and CTO, Hero MotoCorp; Dr G Nagrajan, President, SAE India; and Dr N H Walke, Convenor, SIAT 2026.
