Pune: The inaugural edition of Autonomous BAJA SAEINDIA 2024 (aBAJA) concluded at the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), showcasing cutting-edge innovations in Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and autonomous vehicle technology.
This event marks a significant leap forward in the journey toward safer and smarter road mobility.
As part of the 17th BAJA SAEINDIA competition, aBAJA introduced a new autonomous vehicle category to the national competition for engineering students.
In addition to the popular mBAJA (IC Engine) and eBAJA (Electric) categories, 2024 saw the introduction of both aBAJA (Autonomous) and hBAJA (Hydrogen), further expanding the platform’s technological scope.
The event featured five finalist teams representing engineering institutions from across the country, who competed in a series of static and dynamic challenges over three days.
Their designs and prototypes showcased the latest advancements in ADAS and autonomous systems, solidifying India’s commitment to the future of intelligent transportation.
The competition unfolded in three distinct phases. The initial phase took place at Ajeenkya DY Patil University, Pune, in July 2023, followed by a virtual round supported by Chitkara University, Chandigarh, in December 2023. The final event, hosted by ARAI, took place in October 2024.
Team IPS-Sprinters from IPS Academy, Indore, emerged victorious in the competition, while Team Acroracerz from Acropolis Institute of Technology and Research, Indore and Team E-Ziba Racers from Shri Vishnu Engineering College for Women, Bhimavaram claimed the first and second runner-up positions, respectively.
In his address, Dr. Reji Mathai, Director of ARAI, stated, “The success of aBAJA underscores ARAI’s dedication to advancing automotive technologies. It serves as a platform for future engineers to innovate and shape the mobility landscape of tomorrow.”
Chief Guest Rajendra Abhange, Director & Chief Operating Officer of Endurance Technologies, also highlighted the pivotal role of autonomous mobility in the future of the automotive component industry.
"The demand for autonomous systems will only increase, and aBAJA is instrumental in creating a pipeline of engineers who understand these complex systems," he said.
Dr. K C Vora, Professor of Practice & Advisor for BAJA SAEINDIA 2025, expressed how this year’s competition embraced the theme ‘Multiverse of Mobility,’ symbolizing the convergence of various transport technologies and sustainability goals.