ARAI to Host Global Automotive Innovation Summit, SIAT 2026, in Pune

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The Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) has confirmed that the 19th edition of the Symposium on International Automotive Technology (SIAT) will take place from January 28 to 30, 2026, at the Pune International Exhibition and Convention Centre (PIECC). Held every two years, the upcoming event will focus on the theme: “Innovative Pathways for Safe and Sustainable Mobility.” According to ARAI, the symposium has already drawn more than 2,000 abstract submissions from global researchers and automotive experts.

SIAT 2026 will highlight advancements in key areas such as electric mobility, emissions control, advanced safety systems, vehicle dynamics, simulation and modeling, and hydrogen propulsion technologies. It will also address developments in noise and vibration analysis (NVH), alternative fuels, structural reliability, ADAS, intelligent transport systems, and material innovation.

Running alongside the symposium, the SIAT Expo 2026 will feature an extensive exhibition space where automotive companies and technology providers can showcase their latest offerings, including components, software, test solutions, and manufacturing innovations. The 2024 edition of the event drew over 2,000 delegates and featured 211 technical papers from contributors across 10 countries.

Attendees visited dedicated zones such as the Hydrogen Pavilion and ADAS demo area, while the technology showcase included 330 exhibition stalls representing global participation from India, the USA, UK, Japan, Germany, Austria, France, and Finland. The exhibition area recorded footfall exceeding 7,000 visitors, and a special pavilion hosted over 70 startups and small enterprises.

Since its launch in 1985, SIAT has grown into one of the most influential automotive technology gatherings in Asia. The event has hosted renowned figures such as Dr APJ Abdul Kalam and industry experts like Dr Pawan Goenka. Supported by the Ministry of Heavy Industries and the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, SIAT serves as a platform for dialogue that contributes to shaping national mobility policies and standards.

ARAI operates as a collaborative industrial research organization under the Ministry of Heavy Industries, Government of India. It plays a vital role in advancing automotive research, conducting certification and homologation, and supporting regulatory development. The organization is at the forefront of promoting vehicle safety, emission reduction, and efficiency improvements across the automotive landscape.