As the automotive industry moves rapidly toward electrification, digitalisation and intelligent mobility, the need for a highly skilled workforce has never been greater. In this conversation, Chairperson of the Automotive Skills Development Council (ASDC), Mr. Vinkesh Gulati shares insights into how the organisation is shaping India’s automotive talent ecosystem through industry partnerships, advanced training programmes and future-oriented curricula. From electric vehicles and artificial intelligence to Industry 4.0, ASDC is playing a crucial role in preparing professionals for the next phase of mobility transformation.
Q1. The automotive industry is undergoing rapid transformation with the rise of electric mobility, autonomous technologies and connected vehicles. How can the evolving skill ecosystem help stakeholders navigate these changes?
The automotive sector is currently experiencing one of the most significant technological shifts in its history. Electric mobility, intelligent vehicle systems and digital connectivity are reshaping not only vehicles but also the skills required to design, manufacture and maintain them. As the designated Sector Skill Council for the automotive industry, ASDC is working actively to build a forward-looking skill ecosystem that aligns with these evolving industry needs. We have developed several specialized job roles focused on electric mobility and related technologies, covering the entire EV value chain.
These roles provide professionals with a combination of conceptual understanding and hands-on experience in areas such as electric powertrain systems, battery technologies, sensor integration, software applications and data-based diagnostics. We also strongly encourage apprenticeship-based learning, which gives trainees valuable practical exposure within industry environments. To support continuous learning, ASDC has partnered with several industry stakeholders to develop accessible digital learning platforms. These platforms enable professionals to upgrade their skills and stay competitive in a rapidly changing automotive landscape. By strengthening the skill ecosystem, we are not only enhancing workforce capabilities but also making the automotive sector more attractive for new talent.
Q2. Artificial intelligence and data analytics are becoming increasingly important in automotive systems. How is the skill ecosystem preparing professionals to work with these technologies?
Artificial intelligence and advanced data analytics are transforming the way vehicles operate and interact with their environment. These technologies are enabling developments such as autonomous driving, advanced driver assistance systems and predictive vehicle diagnostics. To support this shift, the automotive workforce must develop strong capabilities in both digital technologies and automotive engineering fundamentals. ASDC is addressing this requirement by introducing specialized training programmes focused on AI, digitalisation and Industry 4.0 applications within the automotive sector.
Alongside these advanced programmes, we continue to emphasise core engineering and manufacturing skills such as machining, fabrication and welding, ensuring that professionals possess a balanced skill set.
Through collaborations with leading manufacturers including Hero MotoCorp, Royal Enfield, VE Commercial Vehicles, Toyota Motor Corporation, MG Motor India and Maruti Suzuki, ASDC delivers targeted training programmes for technicians, service engineers and workshop professionals. These initiatives ensure that the workforce remains aligned with the latest technological developments in the industry.
Q3. What steps is ASDC taking to enhance its curriculum and ensure that learners remain globally competitive?
ASDC’s training framework is built on National Occupational Standards (NOS), which serve as the foundation for the development of various qualifications and training programmes. These standards are approved by the National Skill Qualifications Committee under the National Council for Vocational Education and Training (NCVET).
At regular intervals, all existing qualifications are reviewed and updated to reflect the rapidly evolving technological landscape of the automotive sector. Industry experts from diverse automotive domains actively participate in this review process, ensuring that every qualification and training programme remains aligned with current industry expectations and practical requirements.
The updated curricula now incorporate emerging areas such as electric mobility, Industry 4.0 technologies, sustainability practices, advanced diagnostics and safety systems. In addition to entry-level training, ASDC has expanded its focus to include large-scale upskilling and reskilling initiatives for the existing workforce. Continuous curriculum evolution will remain essential to keep pace with ongoing technological advancements in the automotive industry.
Q4. What emerging job roles and career opportunities do you foresee in India’s automotive ecosystem?
The transformation of the automotive industry is creating several new employment opportunities, particularly in the electric mobility ecosystem. As EV adoption increases, there will be growing demand for skilled technicians and engineers capable of installing, maintaining and servicing electric vehicles.
Training will increasingly focus on specialised competencies such as battery systems, EV diagnostics, charging infrastructure management, electric powertrain technologies and vehicle electrification.
Battery technology will become a particularly critical domain. As EV batteries play a central role in vehicle performance and safety, there will be rising demand for professionals with expertise in battery chemistry, cell manufacturing, battery pack assembly, testing and lifecycle management.
Similarly, the expansion of EV charging infrastructure will create opportunities for professionals involved in installation, operation and maintenance of charging networks.
ASDC has proactively identified several emerging domains including electric mobility, sustainability, vehicle diagnostics and safety systems. Our programmes are designed for both new entrants and experienced professionals who wish to upgrade their skills.
Q5. What key technological trends do you expect to shape the automotive industry in the near future?
Today’s vehicles are increasingly becoming sophisticated digital systems equipped with advanced electronics and software capabilities. From two-wheelers to passenger cars and commercial vehicles, the integration of electronic components has increased significantly.
Rapid advancements in computing power, vehicle connectivity and communication technologies such as 5G are enabling new possibilities. Manufacturers can now monitor vehicle performance, track location and anticipate service requirements through remote diagnostic systems and connected vehicle platforms.
Technology is also transforming logistics and transportation. Since road transport forms the backbone of India’s supply chain, digital tools now allow fleet owners, drivers and logistics managers to monitor vehicle movements, optimise routes and respond quickly to operational challenges.
Electric mobility will continue to expand, supported by improvements in battery technology and charging infrastructure. At the same time, research into alternative energy solutions such as hydrogen fuel cells and solar-powered mobility is progressing steadily and may influence future mobility solutions.
As the demand for mobility continues to grow globally, skilled professionals from India will play an increasingly important role in the automotive sector worldwide. While IT professionals have traditionally dominated global opportunities, skilled automotive engineers and technicians are now finding employment across international markets.
