MBRDI looks to enhance digital play across model range amid shift towards software driven mobility

Bengaluru, Dec 11 (PTI) Mercedes-Benz Research and Development India is focusing on cutting-edge digital solutions and technological interventions to further enhance safety aspects across its model range sold across the globe, according to a top company executive.
     Mercedes-Benz Research and Development India (MBRDI) is the largest research and development centre for Mercedes-Benz Group AG outside of Germany.
     Headquartered in Bengaluru, it plays a prominent role in the development of technologies like connected, autonomous, and electric for the German automaker.
     In an interaction with PTI, MBRDI Managing Director and CEO Manu Saale said the organisation, which employs over 8,500 people, is also playing a role in enhancing the safety features in its cars globally to a whole new level.
     "India's (MBRDI) focus area is pretty, pretty clear because we are the digital powerhouse of the company..we are active during the years when the car is turning into a software-defined vehicle," he stated when asked about the focus areas for the company over the next few years.
     When Mercedes Benz turns itself into a software-defined vehicle then features like autonomous driving, and infotainment, are all going to be defined by software, he stated.
     "India has its tasks clearly cut out, which is to provide the cutting-edge digital elements in the car. So that's what we are doing right now, and that's what we'll do in the immediate future..continue to provide and make the car and its features software rich," Saale said.
     Speaking on the sidelines of the Mercedes-Benz Safe Roads India Summit here, he noted that the German automaker is improving the safety standards of its cars with each passing year.
     " ... which is why 2050 is the year declared, touted to be the year where we can, we can design a car where we aim for zero fatalities," Saale stated.
     When asked what steps could be taken by the domestic automotive industry in terms of road safety, he stated:" I think mantra number one should be to improve the product, make it safer. "
     Secondly, more needs to be done in terms of spreading information about road safety through various initiatives including CSR activities, he added.
     Thirdly, the OEMs need to actively work with government authorities as well as private organisations which work in the field of road safety.
     Last year in India, around 1.7 lakh people died in close to 4.8 lakh road accidents, with every fifth death being a pedestrian.
     Saale noted that the safe road initiative is a testament to the company's commitment to raising awareness, increasing collaboration, and taking an insights-driven approach to address India's unique road safety challenges.
     "By integrating technology and partnerships, we are not just enhancing the safety capabilities of our vehicles but are also driving a shift towards safer road practices in India," he added.
     With offices in Bengaluru and Pune, MBRDI employs professionals engaged in digital product development, interior component design, IT engineering and services.

(This story has not been edited by THE WEEK and is auto-generated from PTI)