Accenture and the Centre of Excellence in Advanced Automotive Research (CAAR) at IIT Madras have teamed up to offer specialized skill development programs for software-defined vehicles (SDVs) through Accenture’s LearnVantage SDV Academy. This collaboration aims to equip automotive Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and Global Capability Centers (GCCs) with the talent needed to advance in the rapidly growing SDV space. As the automotive sector shifts toward more digitally integrated vehicles, this initiative will help close the skills gap by addressing the demand for professionals proficient in automated driving technology, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), electrical and electronic architecture, connectivity, and infotainment systems.
The curriculum is tailored for professionals in automotive technology, featuring domain-specific modules, hands-on learning environments, and expert coaching delivered via a combination of self-paced and instructor-led sessions by IIT Madras faculty. Topics covered include advanced IoT, embedded systems, vehicle safety, communication protocols, cybersecurity, edge computing, cloud virtualization, and industry standards like AUTOSAR and ASPICE.
According to Accenture’s research, the market for software-defined digital services is expected to reach $3.5 trillion and account for 40% of global automotive revenues by 2040. To address this shift, Accenture LearnVantage’s SDV Academy provides targeted training programs to help the industry meet these challenges.
Kishore Durg, global lead of Accenture LearnVantage, stated, “The automotive sector is evolving rapidly, and as vehicles become more reliant on software, there’s an urgent need for talent skilled in AI, machine learning, cybersecurity, and safety systems. Our partnership with CAAR at IIT Madras represents a breakthrough in addressing this talent gap, enabling large-scale upskilling and reskilling of professionals across OEMs and GCCs.”
Professor Krishnan Balasubramanian, Professor-in-Charge of CAAR at IIT Madras, emphasized the significance of academia-industry collaborations in creating a pathway for the next generation of skilled professionals in the SDV space. “This partnership with Accenture LearnVantage is a win-win for everyone involved, particularly as we look to upskill the workforce in emerging areas like SDVs,” he said.
Thiruppathy Srinivasan, CEO of CAAR, IIT Madras, also commented, “The automotive industry’s transition towards electrification, connectivity, and advanced technologies has created an urgent need for digital skills. This collaboration offers an effective way to bridge the talent gap and prepare professionals for the rapidly changing landscape.”
Accenture and IIT Madras have an ongoing partnership through their joint Centre of Excellence (CoE), focusing on research and development in autonomous robotics systems, IIoT, digital twins, and other advanced automotive technologies. Additionally, TalentSprint, part of Accenture LearnVantage, offers an advanced postgraduate certification in Data Science and Machine Learning in collaboration with IIT Madras.
Accenture is a global leader in professional services, helping businesses, governments, and other organizations build their digital capabilities, optimize operations, and accelerate growth. With over 791,000 employees serving clients in more than 120 countries, Accenture is at the forefront of technological transformation, with expertise in cloud, AI, and data solutions. Accenture’s diverse portfolio includes services in Strategy & Consulting, Technology, Operations, Industry X, and Song.
The Centre of Excellence in Advanced Automotive Research (CAAR), based at IIT Madras, works at the intersection of academia and industry to drive technological innovation in the automotive sector. CAAR focuses on developing emerging technologies, providing industry-focused consulting, and offering specialized training programs to upskill professionals.
Established in 1959, IIT Madras is a premier institution in India known for excellence in education, research, and innovation in science and technology. Ranked No. 1 in India for the sixth consecutive year by the National Institutional Ranking Framework, IIT Madras continues to lead in areas like engineering, entrepreneurship, and advanced research.
