29 July 2016
The University of South Australia (UniSA) and the Malaysian Automotive Institute (MAI) are partnering to establish a joint Automotive Innovation Centre, set to pioneer and deploy fresh innovations in nanotechnology and materials science, to advance the automotive industry.
A Memorandum of Understanding has been signed between the two institutions which will see UniSA’s Future Industries Institute host the new Innovation Centre, with spin-off companies anticipated to follow to deliver emerging technologies from the Centre into the market place.
The Centre will employ a range of researchers, engineers and industry specialists with a research focus on nano/molecular engineering of functional surfaces and new disruptive manufacturing techniques.
Opportunities will be provided for scientists and engineers from Australia and Malaysia to develop and be trained in state-of-the-art manufacturing methods, upskilling them to be at the forefront of their field.
Initial projects linked to the Centre include the development of lightweight, large, format thermal management windows for the automotive industry and opportunities for functional fabrics.
Professor Peter Murphy, Strand Leader and David Klingberg Chair in Energy and Advanced Manufacturing at FII, says the new Centre will help to position UniSA at the forefront of new technologies and emerging markets in the automotive industry.
“While there will be some focus on immediate market/product opportunities, much of the research effort will be invested in activities that will position us for the future, from a scientific, social and business perspective,” Professor Murphy says.
“This will involve broad engagement of research expertise across UniSA, engaging scientists specialising in materials science, advanced manufacturing, engineering, business, marketing and consumer choice.”
UniSA Vice Chancellor, Professor David Lloyd signed the agreement with CEO of the Malaysia Automotive Institute, Dato’ Madani Sahari, both describing the partnership as exciting for Malaysia and Australia.
“This is collaborative practice at its best, between two institutions, between scientific research and industry development, between innovation and opportunity,” Professor Lloyd says.
“The outcome of this collaboration will be the creation of new jobs, new knowledge and new innovations which have the potential to shape the future of the automotive industry and meet some of its ever evolving needs.”
Media contact: Will Venn mobile: +61 401 366 054 email: will.venn@unisa.edu.au
