The Automobile Research Association of India (ARAI), in collaboration with Micelio Mobility and IIT Guwahati Tech Park, has announced that its Digital Twin Lab is now fully operational, marking a significant milestone in India’s electric vehicle (EV) innovation ecosystem. The lab, supported by the Ministry of Heavy Industries, leverages advanced simulation-led development to accelerate EV design, validation, and deployment for startups, MSMEs, and established automotive players.
A First-of-Its-Kind Hub-and-Spoke Model
The Digital Twin Lab follows an innovative ‘hub-and-spoke’ model, with the main hub at ARAI, Pune, and two strategic spokes at Micelio Discovery Studio, Bengaluru, and IIT Guwahati. This structure enables nationwide access to cutting-edge digital twin capabilities, allowing EV developers to simulate real-world conditions and optimise vehicle performance without large-scale physical prototyping.
Dr Reji Mathai, Director of ARAI, stated:
“ARAI is proud to expand its Digital Twinning services across India, empowering OEMs, startups, and automotive innovators with advanced mobility solutions. Our collaboration with Micelio and support from the Ministry of Heavy Industries strengthens India’s journey toward intelligent and sustainable mobility.”
Advanced Capabilities for EV Innovation
The lab offers comprehensive digital twin modelling for critical EV components such as battery packs, motors, and drivetrains, complemented by virtual validation environments. These simulations replicate real-world scenarios, including thermal behaviour, wear and tear, and energy consumption patterns.
Enhanced Hardware-in-Loop (HIL) systems and AI/ML-based simulation tools allow precise prediction of vehicle performance across various operational scenarios. Startups and MSMEs can validate concepts and refine designs with minimal capital investment, reducing time-to-market and development costs.
Driving India’s EV Ambitions
Mr Shreyas Shibulal, Founder & Director of Micelio Mobility, emphasised:
“The Digital Twin Lab is a fundamental shift in EV innovation in India. By providing access to advanced simulation infrastructure, we enable Indian EV innovators to compete globally while developing solutions tailored to domestic conditions.”
The lab aligns with key national initiatives, including Make in India, Atmanirbhar Bharat, and Digital Public Infrastructure, fostering innovation and sustainable growth in the EV sector. Its launch coincides with Micelio’s Global Clean Mobility Summit 2025, where its capabilities and impact on India’s mobility ecosystem will be showcased under the theme ‘Next Starts Now: Sustain and Scale’.
A Transformational Step for the Mobility Ecosystem
As India advances toward cleaner, smarter transportation solutions, the ARAI-Micelio Digital Twin Lab represents a practical example of simulation-led EV development transitioning from concept to measurable industry impact. It empowers manufacturers, innovators, and startups to design efficient, high-performing, and sustainable electric vehicles tailored to Indian conditions.