

M-TECH in Automotive Systems Engineering at Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education


Virudhunagar, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is Automotive Systems Engineering at Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education Virudhunagar?
This M.Tech Automotive Systems Engineering program at Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education focuses on equipping students with advanced knowledge in vehicle design, development, and control systems. With India''''s automotive sector experiencing rapid growth, there''''s a significant demand for skilled engineers in areas like electric vehicles, autonomous technology, and smart mobility solutions. The program emphasizes cutting-edge technologies crucial for the evolving Indian and global automotive industry.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for mechanical, automobile, mechatronics, and related engineering graduates seeking to specialize in the automotive domain. It caters to fresh graduates aspiring for research and development roles, as well as working professionals looking to upskill in areas like EV technology, vehicle dynamics, or embedded systems. Individuals interested in contributing to India''''s automotive innovation ecosystem, from manufacturing to R&D, will find this program beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India''''s automotive giants like Tata Motors, Mahindra & Mahindra, Ashok Leyland, and international players with R&D centers here. Roles include Automotive Design Engineer, R&D Engineer, Powertrain Engineer, ADAS Specialist, or Vehicle Dynamics Analyst. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 6-10 LPA, with experienced professionals earning significantly higher. The program also aligns with certifications in specific automotive software and hardware.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Automotive Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Thoroughly grasp fundamental subjects like Advanced IC Engines, Chassis, and Transmissions. Actively participate in lab sessions to gain hands-on experience with automotive components and systems, building a strong base for advanced topics.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses on Automotive Engineering, Simulation software like MATLAB/Simulink (basic level), Departmental labs and workshops
Career Connection
A solid foundation is crucial for excelling in technical interviews for R&D and design roles at companies like Tata Motors and Mahindra.
Develop Research Acumen- (Semester 1-2)
Engage deeply with the Research Methodology and IPR course. Practice critical literature reviews and identify potential research gaps in the automotive domain, laying the groundwork for your project work and future innovations.
Tools & Resources
Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Patent databases (Indian Patent Office)
Career Connection
Strong research skills are vital for R&D positions and for pursuing higher studies (PhD) in India or abroad.
Build Peer Learning Networks- (Semester 1-2)
Form study groups and collaborate with peers on assignments and lab work. Exchange knowledge, discuss complex topics, and collectively solve problems to enhance understanding and develop teamwork skills.
Tools & Resources
Department student forums, Collaborative online tools (e.g., Microsoft Teams, Google Meet)
Career Connection
Effective teamwork is a highly valued skill in Indian automotive companies, where projects are often collaborative.
Intermediate Stage
Specialize through Electives- (Semester 3)
Carefully choose elective subjects like Hybrid & Electric Vehicles or Autonomous Vehicles based on career interests. Deep dive into these areas to gain specialized knowledge and practical skills that align with industry trends.
Tools & Resources
Specialized software (e.g., ANSYS, CATIA, SolidWorks), Online courses from edX/Coursera on chosen specialization
Career Connection
Specialized knowledge directly qualifies you for niche roles in rapidly growing sectors like EV development and ADAS engineering in India.
Initiate Project Work with Industry Relevance- (Semester 3)
Begin your Project Work Phase I by identifying a problem with real-world automotive industry implications. Seek guidance from faculty and explore opportunities for industry mentorship or collaboration to make your project impactful.
Tools & Resources
Industry white papers, Conferences and workshops (e.g., SAE India events), Faculty research groups
Career Connection
A strong, industry-relevant project demonstrates problem-solving abilities and practical application, highly valued by Indian automotive recruiters.
Network with Industry Professionals- (Semester 3)
Attend industry webinars, seminars, and expos. Connect with professionals, alumni, and potential employers. These interactions provide insights into current industry needs and open doors for internships or future employment.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, SAE India student chapters, Automotive trade fairs in India
Career Connection
Networking is crucial for uncovering hidden job opportunities and building a professional reputation within the Indian automotive ecosystem.
Advanced Stage
Excel in Project Implementation & Thesis Writing- (Semester 4)
Dedicate significant effort to Project Work Phase II, focusing on meticulous data collection, analysis, and interpretation. Craft a high-quality thesis that articulates your research and findings clearly, demonstrating your technical and communication skills.
Tools & Resources
Data analysis software (e.g., Python, R), Academic writing guides, University research paper guidelines
Career Connection
A well-executed project and thesis are strong testimonials of your capabilities, enhancing your profile for R&D roles and academic pursuits.
Prepare for Placements and Interviews- (Semester 4)
Actively participate in campus placement drives. Refine your resume, practice technical and HR interview questions, and prepare presentations on your project work. Focus on showcasing your specialization and problem-solving skills.
Tools & Resources
Career guidance cell, Mock interview sessions, Online platforms like Glassdoor, AmbitionBox for company insights
Career Connection
Effective placement preparation is critical for securing desirable roles in top Indian automotive companies and MNC R&D centers in India.
Cultivate Professional Ethics and Continuous Learning- (Semester 4)
Understand and adhere to ethical practices in automotive engineering and research. Develop a habit of continuous learning by staying updated with emerging technologies and global industry standards through journals and online courses.
Tools & Resources
Professional engineering bodies (e.g., Institution of Engineers India), Industry journals (e.g., Automotive Engineering International), MOOC platforms for advanced certifications
Career Connection
Commitment to ethics and lifelong learning ensures long-term career growth and adaptability in the dynamic Indian automotive industry.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- A Bachelor’s Degree in an appropriate branch of Engineering / Technology (e.g., Mechanical, Automobile, Mechatronics, Aeronautical, Manufacturing, Production, Electrical & Electronics, Electronics & Communication, Instrumentation & Control or equivalent) with minimum pass marks in the qualifying examination.
Duration: 2 years / 4 semesters
Credits: 57 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MTH12R501 | Research Methodology and IPR | Core | 4 | Research Problem Formulation, Literature Review, Research Design, Data Analysis Techniques, IPR and Patents, Research Report Writing |
| MAE12R501 | Advanced Automobile Chassis and Body Engineering | Core | 4 | Vehicle Structures, Chassis Frames, Advanced Suspension Systems, Steering & Braking Mechanisms, Vehicle Body Design, Automotive Aerodynamics |
| MAE12R502 | Advanced Internal Combustion Engines | Core | 4 | Engine Operating Cycles, Advanced Combustion Processes, Fuel Injection Technologies, Engine Emission Control, Supercharging & Turbocharging, Engine Performance Testing |
| MAE12R503 | Automotive Systems Lab | Lab | 2 | Engine Performance Analysis, Exhaust Emission Testing, Chassis Dynamometer Operations, Fuel System Diagnostics, Suspension System Evaluation, Brake System Testing |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAE12R504 | Advanced Transmission Systems | Core | 4 | Advanced Clutch Technologies, Manual & Automatic Transmissions, Continuously Variable Transmissions, Driveline Components, Axles and Differentials |
| MAE12R505 | Automotive Electronics and Embedded Systems | Core | 4 | Automotive Microcontrollers, Sensors and Actuators, Electronic Control Unit (ECU), In-Vehicle Networks, Automotive Diagnostics, Embedded System Architectures |
| MAE12R506 | Automotive Materials | Core | 4 | Advanced Ferrous Materials, Lightweight Non-Ferrous Alloys, Composite Materials, Smart Materials in Automotive, Polymers and Plastics, Corrosion Prevention |
| MAE12RE01 | Vehicle Dynamics (Elective I - Example) | Elective | 3 | Tire Mechanics, Longitudinal Vehicle Dynamics, Lateral Vehicle Dynamics, Ride Comfort Analysis, Steering and Handling, Vehicle Stability Control |
| MAE12RE02 | Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (Elective II - Example) | Elective | 3 | Hybrid Vehicle Architectures, Electric Powertrains, Battery Technology & Management, Power Electronic Converters, Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles, Regenerative Braking Systems |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAE12RE06 | Autonomous Vehicles (Elective III - Example) | Elective | 3 | Autonomous Driving Levels, Sensors for Perception, Localization and Mapping, Path Planning Algorithms, Vehicle Control Systems, V2X Communication |
| MAE12RP01 | Project Work Phase I | Project | 6 | Problem Definition, Literature Survey, Project Proposal Development, Research Methodology, Preliminary Design/Simulation |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAE12RP02 | Project Work Phase II | Project | 16 | Project Implementation, Data Analysis & Interpretation, Technical Report Writing, Thesis Preparation, Viva-Voce Examination |




