Setco Auto Systems Pvt. Ltd., a subsidiary of Setco Automotive Ltd., has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology (VNIT), Nagpur, to collaborate on research in automotive technology. The partnership will focus on developing next-generation automotive systems and aims to strengthen cooperation between academia and industry.
As part of the MoU, Setco and VNIT will jointly undertake research projects in areas such as drivetrains, friction facing technology, electric mobility, and sustainable vehicle solutions. A Clutch Research Laboratory will be set up in VNIT’s Mechanical Engineering Department, dedicated to new product development, advanced testing methods, and innovation in clutch systems to enhance product performance, durability, and life.
The collaboration also includes opportunities for VNIT students to gain hands-on experience through live industry projects, internships, access to advanced testing facilities, and mentorship from Setco’s R&D teams.
“By combining strong technical expertise with our decades of experience in clutch manufacturing and mobility solutions, we aim to develop technologies that will set new benchmarks in performance, durability, and sustainability. Importantly, this partnership will also create a robust platform for nurturing young engineering talent, giving them real world exposure and preparing them to contribute meaningfully to the automotive industry of the future,” said Harish Sheth, Chairman and Managing Director of Setco Automotive Ltd.
Setco Automotive Ltd., founded in 1982, manufactures clutches for medium and heavy commercial vehicles and supplies truck products. Its portfolio includes brake linings, clutches, flywheels, lubricants, release bearing assemblies, and universal joints. The company operates five manufacturing units and has research and development centres in India and the UK. It serves markets across the US, UK, SAARC, and the Middle East.