Thematic Areas for the Department of Automotive Engineering

The Department is strategically positioned to address emerging challenges and opportunities in mobility, manufacturing, sustainability, and policy. Its thematic areas are designed to support teaching, research, industry collaboration, and innovation.

1. Sustainable Powertrains & Renewable Energy Mobility

This area focuses on transitioning from traditional combustion engines to cleaner alternatives.

Key themes:

 

  • Hybrid and electric vehicle (EV) systems
  • Alternative fuels (biofuels, hydrogen, CNG, LPG)
  • Energy storage and battery technologies
  • Fuel economy and emissions reduction strategies

2. Vehicle Design, Dynamics & Structural Systems

Here the emphasis is on developing vehicles tailored for efficiency, safety, and durability in African road conditions.

Key themes:

  • Chassis design and lightweight materials
  • Aerodynamics and structural optimization
  • NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) control
  • Off-road durability and all-terrain vehicles

3. Intelligent Mobility, Mechatronics & Applied AI

This reflects the global shift to automation, connectivity, and smart driving technologies.

Key themes:

  • Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS)
  • Autonomous vehicle technologies
  • Embedded sensors and vehicular IoT
  • Control systems and robotics in automotive systems
  • AI in diagnostics and predictive maintenance

4. Manufacturing, Materials & Additive Engineering

Addressing production efficiency, local content development, and innovation in fabrication.

Key themes:

  • Automotive component manufacturing
  • Additive manufacturing (3D printing)
  • Advanced composites and alloys
  • Process automation and Industry 4.0 integration

5. Transport Policy, Safety & Mobility Systems

This area bridges engineering with governance, sustainability, and national development.

Key themes:

 

  • Road safety technology and crash analysis
  • Transport logistics and fleet management
  • Policy development for EV adoption and standards
  • Urban mobility planning and traffic systems
  • Regulation and compliance frameworks

6. Maintenance, Diagnostics & Aftermarket Technologies

A practical area that responds to industry gaps in service, repair, and lifespan management.

Key themes:

 

  • Computerized diagnostics and telematics
  • Preventive maintenance and lifecycle analysis
  • Multi-brand vehicle servicing technologies
  • Capacity building for local automotive technicians

7. Innovation, Entrepreneurship & Local Content Development

This theme supports national industrialization and economic diversification.

Key themes:

 

  • Start-ups in mobility solutions and auto-tech
  • Indigenous component fabrication
  • Automotive business incubation and commercialization
  • Industry-based research and consultancy services