ARAI Expands Operations with New Testing Facility at NATRAX, Indore

The Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), operating under the Ministry of Heavy Industries, has formally inaugurated its new office-cum-vehicle testing facility at the National Automotive Test Tracks (NATRAX) in Indore. The newly launched unit, named the ARAI – Vehicle Evaluation Lab Workplace, is designed to offer a broad range of services essential for the automotive industry. These include vehicle certification, homologation, vehicle dynamics assessment, and validation testing for manufacturers, component suppliers, and tyre companies across India. 

Dr. Reji Mathai, Director of ARAI, the expansion addresses the changing dynamics of the Indian automotive landscape, which is increasingly shaped by regulatory evolution, safety standards, and technological advancements such as electrification and autonomous systems. Dr. Mathai highlighted that the new facility will provide more direct and regionally accessible support to manufacturers, enabling quicker turnaround times and greater agility in meeting compliance requirements.

Situated within the NATRAX complex—India’s premier proving ground for vehicle testing—the facility will benefit from the site's extensive infrastructure, including high-speed tracks, dynamic platforms, and specialised test setups. This integration is expected to enhance the quality and reliability of test results under uniform and controlled conditions.