Bengaluru: In a significant step towards promoting advanced research and entrepreneurship in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT), Tekion, a leading automotive retail tech innovator, has inaugurated the AU-Tekion Physical AI Innovation Lab at the Department of Computer Technology, MIT campus, Anna University in Chennai.
The initiative, rolled out in partnership with Rehoboth Trust, is expected to bridge the gap between academia and industry, offering students and faculty direct exposure to cutting-edge technologies. Tekion, which also operates from Bengaluru, will provide advanced computing systems, technology support, and access to industry expertise.
Tekion’s vision for AI and IoT in academia
Speaking at the launch, Robert Manoharan, Senior Director, IoT and Hardware, Tekion India, described the lab as a “game-changer” for students.
“The lab provides students with firsthand experience in AI and IoT, ensuring they are job-ready and poised to become future leaders in the tech industry,” he said.
The lab will not only serve as a centre for technical training but also act as a catalyst for research-driven innovation. Tekion has emphasised that its role will go beyond providing hardware, extending into mentoring, curriculum support, and industry collaboration.
Research-driven ecosystem and faculty upskilling
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Anna University and Tekion highlights a commitment to building a research-first ecosystem. Faculty members will be upskilled through Tekion’s industrial training programmes, keeping academic instruction aligned with the rapidly evolving tech landscape.
Edwin Solomon Raj, Project Coordinator at Rehoboth Trust, noted:
“The lab will encourage a research-driven ecosystem, bringing students and faculty together on innovative AI projects. It will also foster entrepreneurial ventures by providing mentorship, networking opportunities, and potential funding support.”
Supporting startups and entrepreneurship
Beyond classroom learning, the AU-Tekion lab will actively support student-led startups and entrepreneurial ventures. Students will gain access to mentorship from industry professionals, potential incubation support, and networking opportunities to connect with venture capital and industry leaders.
The collaboration will further expand into industry-academia events, such as workshops, technology test drives, and seminars, giving students a chance to interact with experts and showcase their innovations.
Benefits for students and the industry
Industry observers say that Tekion’s initiative comes at a critical time when AI and IoT applications are increasingly shaping sectors such as automotive, healthcare, logistics, and retail. With direct access to industry practices, Anna University students will gain a competitive advantage in employability and entrepreneurship.
The AU-Tekion Physical AI Innovation Lab is expected to benefit hundreds of students annually, while also opening opportunities for faculty research collaborations and pilot projects with industry partners.
Conclusion
By setting up the AU-Tekion Physical AI Innovation Lab, Tekion has reinforced its vision of empowering the next generation of innovators. The partnership not only bridges the gap between theory and practice but also paves the way for a sustainable ecosystem of research, innovation, and entrepreneurship in India.