Ayisy Yusof
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia Automotive, Robotics and IoT Institute (MARii) and Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) will develop the Next Generation Vehicles (NxGVs), Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS), and Industrial Revolution 4.0 (IR 4.0) through the utilisation of research facilities and local talents provided by both entities.
The development of three new elements, as outlined in the National Automotive Policy 2020 (NAP 2020), would also allow re-manufacturing, recycling, and smart manufacturing technologies through various research and design (R&D) projects and commercialisation efforts.
MARii chairman Datuk Phang Ah Tong said the academia provides an important dimension in developing novel solutions to industry needs in the rapidly growing technology sector.
"This memorandum of understanding (MoU) signifies our continued collaboration with the nation's research pool towards accelerating technology adoption within all economic levels and ranks", he said.
MARii chief executive officer Datuk Madani Sahari said one of the projects include the development and commercialisation of electric vehicle (EV) batteries which will be supported by various R&D collaborations by both parties.
This focuses on battery performance, battery replication, and the development of a lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery production line, among others.
"The MoU between MARii and UKM completes the strategic network of expertise required to implement projects related to the research and development of basic materials for lithium ion battery manufacturing, cybersecurity and digitalisation in the mobility sector," he said.
Madani also said a hydrogen energy efficient vehicle (HEEV) project will be carried out to develop an energy efficient alternative fuel source through the utilisation of hydrogen fuel technology, which aimed at improving vehicle emissions.
Mohd Hamdi said the MoU commits UKM to work together more closely towards its common goal, to enhance technology capabilities.
"Each side will pursue many significant activities, such as knowledge exchange and research collaboration of all fields from any faculties, research institutes, and departments in UKM," he said.
MARii said a framework for testing and verification of re-manufactured engines will also be formulated to allow for the production of higher quality re-manufactured parts and components.
Future developments also include a focus on cybersecurity, using Industry 4.0 technologies to deploy layered-security systems – a cyber-defense method which utilises various security techniques to protect key data and resources.
Signing on behalf of MARii was Madani and UKM vice chancellor Professor Datuk Ir. Dr Mohd Hamdi Abd Shukor in a ceremony held at the MARii Auditorium in Cyberjaya.
The ceremony was also attended by UKM chairman Tan Sri Abdul Wahid Omar and UKM deputy vice chancellor of research and innovation Professor Datuk Ir. Dr. Abdul Wahab Mohammad.