In a world where AI and machine learning (ML) rapidly evolved, engineers found themselves at a crossroads. Core engineering, the bedrock of innovation—bridges, engines and energy—was being overshadowed by AI’s intelligence and ML’s problem-solving power. Automated systems began to predict failures, design smarter cities, and optimise production lines without human intervention. Engineers feared their foundational skills would become obsolete. But soon, they discovered AI and ML were not competitors, but allies. Together, they fused the precision of engineering with AI’s adaptability, creating a future where machines and human ingenuity coexisted, amplifying each other’s strengths. In this week's AutoTech newsletter we have curated stories from AI, ML, and core engineering. In the following article, it is discussed on India's AI startup ecosystem. Take a loot at it.

Michelin fuels AI

At IIT Delhi, Michelin's first AI Challenge celebrated the innovation of startups Kogo.ai, Prophecy, and Zangoh.ai. Collaborating with DPIIT and Startup India, Michelin awarded these AI pioneers for revolutionising tyre technology. With global mentorship and pilot projects ahead, this initiative promises to drive innovation in India's AI startup ecosystem. Read to know more.

Michelin introduces AI challenge to innovate India's startup ecosystem with AI technologies


Continental drives innovation

As the automobile industry embraces IoT, Continental India is leading innovation in connected and autonomous vehicles. Focusing on localisation, the company aims to offer affordable smart features while enhancing safety and sustainability. Experts predict autonomous mobility may enter India’s market by the decade’s end. Here is the complete article.

Consumer demand for connectivity and convenience drive auto industry growth, says Continental India CEO


MG revolutionises engagement

JSW MG Motor India partnered with Google Cloud to launch AI chatbots, Avira and Vir, revolutionising customer engagement. Avira enhances the car-buying experience, while Vir provides EV insights. These AI-powered assistants, available on multiple platforms, offer personalised, real-time support for a seamless user experience. Read to know more.

JSW MG Motor India launches AI chatbots Avira and Vir with Google Cloud for enhanced customer engagement


Engineers embrace evolution

In a recent webinar, industry leaders highlighted the need for engineers to evolve with AI-driven technologies. Ford’s Suresh Kandula emphasised the rising demand for strategic skills in India, while experts stressed the importance of lifelong learning and upskilling through initiatives like Nasscom’s Future Skills Prime. Detailed article is following.

Core skills remain crucial in this age of AI and ML


IIT powers EV innovation

IIT Bhubaneswar is launching a nine-month advanced certification in electric vehicle (EV) technology, combining digital learning, hands-on labs, and internships with startups. This programme prepares BTech graduates for careers in e-mobility, offering practical industry exposure and opportunities to work on live EV projects. Here is the full article.

IIT Bhubaneswar to offer certificate course on EV Tech


Tesla faces investigation

The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is investigating Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) software after four crashes, including one fatality, in low-visibility conditions. The probe, covering 2.4 million vehicles, could challenge Tesla's push toward self-driving and robotaxi development. Read to know more.

NHTSA probing Tesla's FSD software in 2.4 mn vehicles over collisions


Electric taxis takeoff

Sarla Aviation, in collaboration with Bengaluru Airport, plans to launch electric flying taxis, promising faster, cleaner urban transport. The initiative, targeting cities like Bengaluru and Mumbai, aims to reduce traffic congestion with eVTOL aircraft, offering affordable, sustainable air travel solutions within 2-3 years. Following is the detailed article.

Bengaluru airport partners with Sarla Aviation to launch electric flying taxis


Electra EV evolves

Electra EV, an EV powertrain supplier founded by Ratan Tata, is expanding into Software Defined Vehicles (SDV). Led by Dr. Himadri Bhushan Das, the team is developing a customisable vehicle OS to enhance EV performance and personalisation, aiming for completion by 2025. Here is the detailed article.

Exclusive: Ratan Tata founded EV startup embarks on SDV tech journey, appoints an Ola Electric Director to head new initiative


Connected cars revolution

Kia India has partnered with Airtel Business to power its Kia Connect 2.0 platform, enhancing vehicle management, AI voice command, and remote control. Airtel’s IoT platform will ensure real-time data connectivity and security for Kia’s connected car variants, supporting both internal combustion and electric vehicles. Read the full article.

Kia India signs up Bharti Airtel’s enterprise arm to enable connected cars


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