The International Centre for Automotive Technology (iCAT) today launched an online system to speed up the certification process for new vehicles that are to be launched in the Indian market.

"I am sure that deployment of the online certification system will not only enhance transparency, but also will boost customer satisfaction," Ministry of Heavy Industries Secretary B S Meena said after the roll-out of the online certification system, which will be formally deployed on July 15.

iCAT, which is located at Manesar, is a semi-government agency set up to provide state-of-the-art testing, R&D and validation services to the northern hub of the automotive industry.

"The online system will reduce processing time to 45 days from 70 days earlier. This will also lead to reduced paper work," iCAT Director Dinesh Tyagi said.

The system will enable users to download the latest specification formats applicable to all categories of customers, ranging from original equipment manufacturers and importers to component, engine and genset manufacturers.

In case of any error in the application, corrections can be made online. Furthermore, an audit trail will be maintained.

This new system will support processes such as tyre approval, conformity of production and R&D projects related to vehicles, engines and components.

iCAT developed the system at a cost of USD 1 million in partnership with KPIT.

"This year, four R&D projects have been approved by the Department of Heavy Industries, to be carried out by iCAT in line with the roadmap of the Automotive Mission Plan 2016," Meena said.

iCAT is also setting up another centre for NVH (Noise Vibration and Harshness) testing, Meena added.