Introduction

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The Kerala Automotive Technology Summit (KATS 2025) is set to take place on February 6, 2025, in the vibrant state capital of Thiruvananthapuram. This landmark event will focus on establishing the city as a global leader in Software- Defined Vehicles (SDVs) and Electric Vehicle (EV) innovations.

The summit's logo was unveiled by the Honourable Minister for Industries, P.Rajeev, marking the beginning of this significant event organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) in collaboration with the Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation (KSIDC). Minister Rajeev emphasized Kerala's flourishing ecosystem, home to leading players such as Nissan Digital India LLP, dSPACE, Acsia, Visteon, Blue Binaries, and Tata Elxsi.

"KATS 2025 will highlight Kerala’s emerging potential in the EV market, enhancing its status as a global automotive tech hub," said Shri Rajeev. He also noted that the summit serves as a precursor to the Invest Kerala Global Summit 2025 (IKGS 2025), which will take place in Kochi on February 21-22, 2025.

The Kerala Automotive Technology Summit will bring together global Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), Tier-1 suppliers, and policymakers to explore investment opportunities in Kerala’s Electric Vehicle Research and Industrial Park. The summit will also spotlight advancements in key EV components, including batteries, motors, and chargers, cementing Kerala's role as a key player in the future of mobility.

About the Summit

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The global automotive industry is undergoing an unprecedented transformation, driven by the rise of Software-Defined Vehicles (SDVs) and Electric Vehicles (EVs). These vehicles, powered by advanced software and electrics/electronics (E/E) systems, are redefining transportation by integrating connectivity, autonomy, and sustainability into the driving experience.

According to a report by Boston Consulting Group (BCG), the SDV market is projected to grow from $320 billion in 2024 to an impressive $1.2 trillion by 2035, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.9%. This growth is fuelled by the increasing reliance on software to enable advanced functionalities such as autonomous driving, over-the-air updates, and connected ecosystems.

Thiruvananthapuram, with its thriving technology ecosystem and proven expertise in automotive R&D, is uniquely positioned to capitalise on this transformative opportunity. Home to global leaders like Acsia Technologies, Nissan Digital, Tata Elxsi, dSPACE, and Visteon, Kerala's capital city plays a pivotal role in developing software that powers millions of vehicles worldwide. Complementing this is Kerala’s commitment to electric mobility through initiatives such as the Electric Vehicle (EV) Research and Industrial Park at Vilappilsala, Thiruvananthapuram which fosters innovation in EV components like batteries, motors, and charging systems.

The Kerala Automotive Technology Summit (KATS) 2025 is envisioned as the launchpad for establishing Thiruvananthapuram as a global hub for SDV and EV innovation. By bringing together global OEMs, Tier-1 suppliers, policymakers, and technology leaders, KATS 2025 will showcase Kerala’s strategic advantages and set the stage for its leadership in the future of mobility.