Automotive Engineering: Courses, Eligibility and Benefits
01 Jul 2020
Achieving excellence in the automobile sector is indeed a scientific way to travel from one place to another. This scenario has established economic units and different methods of global mobility. The early origin of automobile engineering could be traced to the late 19th century, in the era of internal combustion engines and motor vehicles; since then, the field has undergone sweeping changes: from earlier manual combustion engines to hybrid powertrains and now pure electric and autonomous vehicles.
Today, the fast-growth in automobile engineering is driven by trends like electric vehicles (EVs) technology, artificial intelligence (AI) in vehicles, connected mobility, and autonomous driving technologies. As countries try their utmost to reduce their carbon footprint, vehicle design and manufacturing are now more than ever centered around sustainability and clean energy, and this is where automobile engineers play a key role in this transition, which therefore stands to be one of the most exciting and futuristic careers in engineering.
Who Can Join Automobile Engineering?
Passion and interest in cars and other automotive products is the foremost requirement to become any automobile engineer. For pursuing this automobile engineering course, one should conceptualize some basic knowledge about Mathematics, Chemistry and Physics. Hence, students who have studied PCM with English being a compulsory subject in this regard are eligible to pursue this course.
These students should also have an attitude to resolve mechanical issues. Creative and innovative solutions in respect of drawing, designing and repairs are some essential skill-sets for this course.
Moreover, students with a knack for problem-solving, innovation, and mechanical systems can build a successful career in research & development or product design. Today’s industry also demands strong software skills like AutoCAD, MATLAB, and simulation tools, making tech-savviness an important asset for aspiring automobile engineers.
Also Read :- How Become a Car Designer? Courses, Eligibility and Scope
Automobile Engineering: Courses & Curriculum
To make a career in the automobile industry, an aspirant should pursue a UG automobile engineering course. Later this, a PG course in automobile engineering can be taken up to enhance career prospects.
A wide range of subjects are taught in automobile engineering which include:
- Automotive Electrical Systems: Essential for understanding EVs, hybrid technology, and onboard diagnostics.
- Thermodynamics & IC Engines: Helps engineers analyze fuel efficiency and engine design.
- Computer-Aided Vehicle Design: Equips students with tools like CATIA, SolidWorks, and simulation modeling
- Hybrid and Electric Vehicles: Covers the future of mobility.
- Vehicle Dynamics & Maintenance: Teaches how vehicles behave on different terrains and conditions.
- Emerging Automotive Technologies: Introduces students to AI, IoT, and connected cars.
In addition to traditional degrees, students can enhance their expertise with online certifications such as:
- AI for Automotive Systems
- 3D Printing in Automotive Design
- EV Specialization Courses
- Autonomous Vehicle Engineering
Eligibility to Take Admission in Automobile Engineering
Automobile engineering is a four-year degree course open to students with a science background (PCM) and students who can prove that they have passed 10 + 2 or equivalent from CBSE or any other recognized board with Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics as main subjects. To be eligible for an entrance for this program, the candidate must secure a minimum of 50% marks in the board examination. Students having a diploma in mechanical or allied streams also may take admission directly in the second year of B.Tech Automobile Engineering (lateral entry).
Where Automobile Engineers Work?
The following automobile manufacturing industries provide ample job opportunities to automobile engineering graduates:
- Service stations of automobile companies
- R&D
- Production plants
- Motor vehicle departments of control
- Insurance company experts
- Transport companies
- State transport corporations
As students are taught design software during their graduation years, they also have opportunities in the designing sector.
Career growth often begins with roles like Junior Engineer and progresses to Design Head, Project Manager, or Chief Engineer with experience. Additionally, many engineers venture into startups or join innovation hubs focused on electric vehicles, battery technology, or autonomous mobility.
There are also opportunities in government sectors such as:
- Indian Railways
- ISRO
- DRDO
These organizations recruit automobile engineers for roles in system design, testing, and sustainable transportation research.
A skilled automobile engineer can have a successful career in the automobile industry in western countries as well like the United States of America, Germany, United Kingdom etc. They also have tremendous job opportunities in oriental countries as well such as the Republic of Korea and Japan, which are the giant players in the automotive industries.
Job Roles of an Automobile Engineer
- Automobile Engineer
- Automobile Designer: Their primary task would be to put to use some of the design software like CATIA, SolidWorks, and Rhino to develop new-generation innovative concepts for vehicles.
- Vehicle/Car Designer
- Executive & Managerial Positions
- Automotive Design Engineer
- Automotive Engineering Technician: They play a critical role in testing vehicle systems, evaluating prototypes, and supporting R&D teams during the manufacturing process.
Also Read :- Scope and Career Opportunities After B.Tech Automobile/Automotive
Top Recruiting Companies for Automobile Engineers
- Larsen & Tourbo
- Ashok Leyland
- Toyoto
- Yamaha
- Hyundai
- Volkswagen
- Renault
- Audi
- TELCO
- Bajaj Auto
- Maruti Suzuki
- Mahindra & Mahindra
FAQs
1. What is the starting salary for automobile engineers?
Automobile Engineering is a branch of engineering which witnesses transitions after every ten years. With plenty of job opportunities available in diverse profiles, an automobile engineer gets the best salary in the industry as it involves mechanical, electrical and safety engineering. Starting at INR 20,000 to INR 25,000, an experienced automotive engineer can get up to 1 lakh per month.
2. How much percentage is required for automotive engineering?
Minimum 50% marks in aggregate in Grade XII to get admission in B.Tech in Automobile Engineering. Merit list in colleges is prepared on the basis of score in MRNAT / SAT / JEE / UniGauge-E.
3. Can I do automotive engineering after 10th?
Yes, you can enroll for a Diploma in Automobile/Automotive Engineering. After completing your diploma, you can enroll for B.Tech in Automobile Engineering.
4. Where can I get a job after B.Tech Automobile?
There are top companies in India and Abroad that hire Automobile Engineers:
- TATA Motors
- Mahindra and Mahindra
- Toyota
- Honda
- Ford
- Eicher Motors
- Escorts
- Bajaj Auto Limited
- Maruti Udyog Limited
- Hero Motors
- Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India Pvt. Ltd. (HMSI)
- BMW
- Audi
- Renault
- Volkswagen
5. What is the Difference between Automobile and Automotive Engineering?
Basically, there is no significant difference between automobile and automotive engineering. Automobiles deal with all the passenger vehicles whereas automotive is all that is related to automobiles.
6. Is automobile engineering still the future of employment?
Yes, this is surely the employment of the future for automobile engineers, especially in this time of global shift toward electric vehicles now moving towards autonomous driving, sustainable mobility, and other similar avenues. The government and private companies have begun putting a lot of money into clean energy and eco-friendly transportation, and those new engineers, well versed in electric vehicle (EV) technology, battery systems, and software integration into vehicles, would be more beneficial to everyone because the need for them is arising in this profession. These opportunities are challenging and exciting, and they help an individual make innovative history in future mobility.
7. What are the best certifications for automobile engineers?
To stay ahead in the industry, automobile engineers can pursue certifications that focus on emerging technologies. Top certifications include:
- EV Design and Development
- AI and Machine Learning in Automotive Systems
- Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Technology
- Automotive Cybersecurity
- Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)
8. What are the top countries hiring automobile engineers?
Countries leading in automotive innovation and production actively seek skilled automobile engineers. The top hiring countries include:
- United States – Known for EV innovation and large-scale manufacturing.
- Germany – Home to major automotive brands and engineering excellence.
- Japan – A pioneer in hybrid and fuel-efficient vehicle technologies.
- South Korea – Focused on smart mobility and battery technology.
- China – Rapidly expanding EV market with strong manufacturing infrastructure.
These countries offer competitive salaries, cutting-edge projects, and global exposure in the automobile sector.
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