Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) has officially launched the Mahindra Passive Safety Lab (PSL) and the Battery & Cell Research Lab, enhancing its engineering capabilities for SUV safety testing and cell technology research.
The facilities were inaugurated by Dr T.R.B. Rajaa, the Honorable Minister for Industries, Investment Promotion & Commerce of Tamil Nadu, alongside Mr Velusamy R., President of Automotive Technology & Product Development at M&M, and senior officials from the Tamil Nadu government.
The PSL lab is recognized as one of the largest automotive passive safety test facilities owned by an OEM globally, capable of conducting tests in accordance with the Bharat New Car Assessment Program (BNCAP) as well as Australian and European standards.
The Battery & Cell Research Lab will focus on researching and analyzing battery cells, modules, and packs, with the aim of improving energy efficiency, performance, charging time, and lifespan. This lab represents a significant step for M&M in its commitment to clean mobility solutions, and it will enable in-house destructive and non-destructive testing of cell components.
Located just 55 kilometers from the Mahindra Research Valley (MRV), where all Mahindra SUVs are developed, these labs will play a crucial role in enhancing the company’s product offerings. During the inauguration, Dr. Rajaa expressed pride in the opening of these cutting-edge facilities, emphasizing Mahindra’s dedication to innovation and the advancement of automotive technology. He noted that such initiatives reinforce Tamil Nadu’s status as a global hub for research and development. He added that under the leadership of Chief Minister Thiru. MK Stalin, the government is committed to supporting sustainable mobility solutions, solidifying the state’s position as India’s auto capital.
Mr. Velusamy R. stated that the new labs underscore Mahindra’s commitment to delivering top-quality SUVs, with safety and sustainability being paramount. He highlighted that these sophisticated facilities will work in tandem with MRV and the Mahindra SUV Proving Track (MSPT), creating a unique environment for vehicle development in India.
Key Features of the Mahindra Passive Safety Lab:
- Two crash test areas with a movable block of 100 tonnes and high-speed lighting systems.
- Maximum vehicle mass of 4 tonnes and speeds of up to 120 km/h can be tested.
- Capabilities include various regulatory tests and Bharat New Car Assessment Program evaluations.
- Equipped with high-speed cameras for crash event recording and an extensive array of crash test dummies.
- Dedicated areas for vehicle preparation and testing, with future upgrades for rollover tests.
Key Features of the Mahindra Battery & Cell Research Lab:
- Advanced facilities for battery pack development, including laser welding and robotic assembly.
- Equipped with cutting-edge analytical tools such as FESEM, X-ray diffraction, and CT scanning.
- Supports the creation of prototype battery packs that undergo rigorous real-world performance testing.
Established in 1945, the Mahindra Group is a leading multinational federation with over 260,000 employees across more than 100 countries. The group is recognized for its leadership in sectors such as farm equipment, utility vehicles, IT, and financial services in India, as well as being the world’s largest tractor manufacturer by volume. Mahindra also maintains a strong presence in renewable energy, agriculture, logistics, hospitality, and real estate, with a commitment to driving positive change in communities and enhancing urban living.
