KIIT-DU Launches India’s First Academic Elective on Tyre Technology in Collaboration with Apollo Tyres

In a ground-breaking move that bridges the gap between academia and industry, KIIT Deemed to be University (KIIT-DU) has introduced India’s first-ever credit-based elective course dedicated entirely to Tyre Technology. Launched in partnership with Apollo Tyres Ltd., one of India’s leading tyre manufacturers, this pioneering program integrates cutting-edge tyre science, design, engineering, and manufacturing principles directly into the university curriculum.

A First-of-its-Kind Initiative in Indian Higher Education

While tyre technology has long been a critical pillar of the automotive and mobility ecosystem, no Indian university had previously offered a structured, credit-bearing academic course on the subject—until now.

The new elective, titled “Tyre Technology: Science, Design and Manufacturing”, is being offered to students across multiple disciplines:

• B.Tech (Mechanical, Automobile, Rubber Technology, Polymer Science streams)
• M.Tech (relevant specializations)
• MBA (with focus on Operations, Supply Chain, and Automotive Management)

This cross-disciplinary approach ensures that future engineers, technologists, and business leaders gain deep insights into an industry that touches virtually every aspect of modern transportation.

What Students Will Learn

Curated and co-delivered by Apollo Tyres’ senior technical experts alongside KIIT faculty, the course covers a comprehensive range of topics:

• Fundamentals of tyre materials and rubber compounding
• Tyre design and construction (radial, bias-ply, tubeless technologies)
• Advanced simulation and finite element analysis in tyre engineering
• Manufacturing processes: mixing, extrusion, curing, and quality control
• Performance parameters: grip, rolling resistance, wear, noise, and aquaplaning
• Sustainability in tyre production and end-of-life recycling
• Real-world case studies on tyre failure analysis and fleet management

Students also get exposure to Apollo’s state-of-the-art R&D facilities and manufacturing plants through industrial visits and live projects.

Why This Matters – Now More Than Ever

The Indian tyre industry is valued at over ₹65,000 crore and is among the fastest-growing in the world, driven by rising vehicle ownership, electric mobility, and exports. Yet, there has traditionally been a shortage of formally trained talent with specialized knowledge in tyre engineering and technology.

Speaking at the launch, Dr. Achyuta Samanta, Founder of KIIT & KISS, emphasized:

“This collaboration is a perfect example of how academia and industry can co-create the future workforce. By embedding real-world expertise into our curriculum, we are preparing students not just for jobs, but for leadership in a highly specialized field.”

Mr. Neeraj Kanwar, Vice Chairman & Managing Director, Apollo Tyres, added:

“Tyre technology is far more complex and exciting than most people realize. We are delighted to partner with KIIT-DU to nurture the next generation of tyre professionals who will drive innovation in sustainable and intelligent mobility solutions.”

A Model for Industry-Academia Collaboration

The KIIT–Apollo partnership goes beyond guest lectures. Key highlights include:

• Joint curriculum design and regular updates based on industry trends
• Certification co-signed by KIIT-DU and Apollo Tyres
• Internship and placement opportunities at Apollo’s plants and global R&D centers
• Access to Apollo’s digital tyre simulation platforms for hands-on learning

The elective has already seen overwhelming response, with the first batch completely filled within days of announcement.

The Road Ahead

As India aims to become a global hub for automotive and EV manufacturing, initiatives like KIIT-DU’s Tyre Technology elective signal a mature, forward-thinking higher education ecosystem—one that anticipates industry needs and equips students with niche, high-demand skills.

For engineering and management students passionate about automobiles, materials science, sustainability, or supply chain, this course isn’t just another elective—it’s a launchpad into one of the most fascinating and impactful domains of modern engineering.

KIIT Deemed to be University continues to set new benchmarks in experiential and industry-aligned education. With the Tyre Technology elective, it has once again proven why it consistently ranks among India’s top private universities.

The future of mobility is rolling—and KIIT students are now officially part of shaping it.

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For more details about the program, visit the official KIIT School of Mechanical Engineering or School of Management pages, or contact the university’s industry partnership cell.