Maruti Suzuki India has launched the ninth batch of its corporate accelerator program named Maruti Suzuki Accelerator. The program has been renamed this year and is now open to participants from around the world, including startups. The main goal is to develop cutting-edge solutions for the automotive manufacturing and mobility markets.
The program was formerly known as the Mobility and Automotive Innovation Lab (MAIL). It offers selected startups the opportunity to conduct Proof of Concept (PoC) with the company on a paid basis. Successful startups may receive funding as well as financial support. Startups will be mentored by experienced experts from around the world. They will also be able to participate in educational visits to Japan.
Maruti Suzuki India Managing Director and CEO, Takeuchi Hisashi said the programme was launched in 2019 with an aim to build an enabling ecosystem for startups based on technology-led innovation. The programme is now open to startups across the world.
The program aims to foster collaboration between Maruti Suzuki and the winning startups to come up with technology-driven solutions. The innovations are aimed at improving customer convenience and streamlining business processes. The company has screened over 2,000 startups in the past eight cohorts and partnered with 18 of them.
The Indian automobile sector has grown significantly over the years, contributing around 7.1% of the GDP. The sector also provides employment to over 19 million people. Notable start-ups include Ola, Ather Energy, BluSmart, Droom, Zoomcar, CarDekho, and Euler Motors.
The Accelerator Programme reflects Maruti Suzuki’s commitment to innovation and growth, and its expansion into the latest edition is meant to foster innovation within India, as well as pave the way for international collaboration and technological advancements.
