Chennai: Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) has signed an agreement with US-based Caterpillar Inc. to collaborate on joint research across advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence, data science, mechanical engineering, autonomous mining equipment, gas turbines and engines, batteries and fuel cells, among other fields.

The memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed on August 8 at the IIT Madras campus by Caterpillar India Vice-President (Engineering) and Country Manager Bhuvan Anandakrishnan, IIT Madras Director Prof. V. Kamakoti, Dean (ICSR) Prof. Manu Santhanam and Prof. Shaikh Faruque Ali of the Department of Applied Mechanics and Biomedical Engineering, in the presence of other stakeholders. Key Caterpillar executives from the US also joined the proceedings virtually.

Welcoming the collaboration, Prof. Kamakoti said Caterpillar's multidisciplinary expertise would lead to “several exciting products of global standards” through joint research with the institute.

“This collaboration aims to enhance joint research, consultation, and talent development in the engineering and technology space, aligning with Caterpillar's Global University Collaboration Model,” Anandakrishnan said. He added that the partnership, coming as Caterpillar celebrates its centennial year, would further strengthen the long-standing association with IIT Madras.

The collaboration will cover research and development, continuing education programmes, talent development activities, sponsorship of innovation clubs and technical events, and opportunities for IIT Madras students to take up internships and full-time employment with the company.

Prof. Santhanam said IIT Madras' engagement with Caterpillar is “entering a new realm,” with the institute joining as a Global University Partner. This, he noted, would open up collaborative projects with Caterpillar branches worldwide.

Caterpillar's association with IIT Madras dates back to 2006. The company set up a co-located office at the IIT Madras Research Park in 2008 and has since partnered on research initiatives, consulting, continuing education programmes and student innovation activities.