Innovating for Tomorrow: Inside SIAT 2026 with Dr. Nagesh Walke

As ARAI’s flagship event enters its 19th edition, SIAT 2026 promises to be a landmark platform where global innovators, researchers, and industry leaders converge to explore pathways for safe and sustainable mobility. In conversation with Dr. Nagesh Walke, Convenor, SIAT 2026, we delve into the extensive preparations, key highlights, and the vision driving this international symposium and exposition, which will be held from 28th to 30th January 2026 at PIECC, Pune.

How is the preparation for SIAT 2026 progressing?

SIAT, Symposium on International Automotive Technology, holds the legacy of 40 years and this upcoming 19th edition is all set to welcome delegates, exhibitors, technicians and innovators from 28th to 30th January 2026, at PIECC Pune. Organised since 1985 by ARAI in association with SAE international and SAE India, SIAT has been a flagship biennial international event for the automotive industry, widely acclaimed by top innovators and global industry leaders.

Preparations for SIAT 2026 are in full swing with the overwhelming responses received for this edition as well. More than 1000 technical paper manuscripts by authors from 14 countries, have been received and are under review by expert paper review committee. Companies and Engineering Service Providers are going to showcase their innovations in 380 stalls at SIAT EXPO 2026. This event has been supported by more than 35 companies by providing sponsorship. In summary, Automotive Industry is wholeheartedly participating in all the aspects of SIAT 2026, and we are thrilled by the energy that will definitely help in putting up an extra-ordinary show.

The theme of SIAT 2026 is ‘Innovative pathways for Safe and Sustainable Mobility’. Tell us about the thoughts behind this theme. Why is it so important in today’s context?

The global mobility industry is presently witnessing a profound transformation driven by growing environmental concerns as well as accelerating pace of technological innovations. Future mobility needs focus on creating a system that is Safe and Sustainable, integrating new technologies to tackle the challenges of tomorrow’s mobility combining with shifts in customer behaviour. SIAT 2026 will be providing ideal platform, bringing together global thought leaders, researchers and industry professionals to brainstorm and deliberate on the innovative technologies that can offer safe and sustainable mobility.

What are the highlights of this year’s Agenda?

With the overwhelming response being received for the symposium and the exposition, there is a significant increase in the size and scale of all the activities. SIAT 2026 will have Plenary Sessions with keynote addresses and Panel Discussions by the renowned experts and distinguished leaders from the automotive industry on Sustainable, Safe and Smart mobility. The technical papers and keynotes will be presented in total 64 technical sessions in the eight conference halls. The event will host Inaugural Function, Cultural Program, Networking Luncheons and Valedictory Function.

Simultaneously, the exposition will have two ‘Technology Theatres’ for exhibitors to present their innovations, launch products, hold meetings, etc. The exposition will have ‘Special Technology Zone’ specifically focusing on the emerging technologies like Autonomous, SDV, AI, Connected Vehicles, etc. The exposition will also have dedicated pavilions as ‘Futuristic Technology Pavilion’, ‘Start-ups and Micro & Small Enterprises Pavilion’ and ‘Sponsors’ Pavilion’. SIAT 2026 is coinciding with the Diamond Jubilee Year of ARAI, and our delegates will witness a special ‘ARAI@60 Pavilion’ showcasing ARAI’s journey and contribution over past 60 years.

Can you shed some light on some of the key technical aspects that will be covered through the various technical papers as well as the keynotes at the 2026 edition?

With the robust response, more than 2300 abstracts were submitted by researchers from 14 countries and over 1000 technical paper manuscripts are under review by the expert paper review committee. Out of 1000 technical papers, more than 500 papers will be published with SAE numbers, and more than 270 papers and keynotes will be presented during the conference.

Technical experts will share the recent advancements in the core domains of automotive sector like Active & Passive Safety, Advanced Powertrain and Vehicle Technology, Emission Measurement & Control Technology, Alternative Fuels, Noise, Vibration & Harshness (NVH), Simulation & Modelling, Structural Reliability, Materials & Manufacturing, etc. Technical sessions will also span emerging domains such as E-mobility, Hydrogen Engine & Fuel Cell, ADAS, Autonomous Vehicles, Digital Twins, Cyber Security, AI, Software Defined Vehicles, Circularity and LCA, etc. This shows quality and comprehensive spread of the papers which will be presented and published at SIAT 2026 and the excellent opportunity of knowledge dissemination and networking.

What kind of opportunities or platforms are available for new engineers and engineering students at SIAT 2026?

At SIAT 2026, we recognize that young engineers and students are vital stakeholders in shaping the future of the automotive industry. Their energy, creativity, and fresh perspectives are essential for driving innovation forward. That’s why we’re committed to creating meaningful opportunities for them to engage with industry experts and thought leaders.

In addition, we’re excited to host the Students Poster Presentation Competition, open to undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD scholars. This initiative provides a unique opportunity for students to present their research and innovative ideas to a panel of industry experts and it’s a gateway to mentorship, collaboration, and visibility. The most compelling presentations will be recognised with awards, reinforcing our commitment to nurturing the next generation of automotive leaders.

To foster innovation and entrepreneurship, the SIAT EXPO will feature a dedicated pavilion for Start-ups and Micro & Small Enterprises (MSEs). This space will allow emerging companies to showcase their cutting-edge solutions and connect directly with professionals from across the automotive ecosystem. The Technology Theatre within the pavilion will host presentations and interactive sessions, offering a dynamic platform for knowledge exchange. Outstanding contributions from Start-ups and MSEs will be recognized through awards, celebrating their impact and ingenuity.

How many exhibitors, visitors are you expecting for this edition?

This edition of SIAT will host 380 stalls at SIAT EXPO 2026 and it is expected that more than 10000 visitors will visit the exposition. SIAT 2026 will facilitate discussions and networking by around 3000 delegates. Registration for the conference is now open through SIAT2026 website (https://siat.araiindia.com). I would like to extend an invitation to all professionals, engineers, and academicians to participate in this prestigious event.