As part of RWTH Aachen University, the Institute for Automotive Engineering (ika) researches the complete vehicle including its systems and their interactions. From the initial idea to innovative component and system concepts to vehicle prototypes, the Institute's staff actively design solutions for tomorrow's mobility. To this end, we work together in public and bilateral projects with and for manufacturers and suppliers with an automotive focus to ensure that future mobility will continue to be safe, efficient and attractive.

Our team is divided into six research areas: Vehicle Concepts & HMI, Vehicle Structures, Vehicle Dynamics & Acoustics, Energy Management & Drivetrains, Vehicle Intelligence & Automated Driving and Traffic Psychology & Acceptance. With this broad spectrum of competences, we cover all areas of the motor vehicle. We do not only look at the individual components and their interaction, but also at the vehicle as a whole in an overall social context of sustainable mobility.

The Institute's activities range from the idea to the finished prototype and are oriented towards the requirements of science and industry. The basis of our intensive research work for large parts of the automotive industry as well as public funding bodies at EU, federal and state level is our extensive infrastructure. It ranges from driving simulators and test tracks to automated and driverless vehicle prototypes. In addition, the latest software and hardware equipment is available for all necessary simulation disciplines.



The ika employs more than 100 permanent employees and around 150 student assistants. In addition, there are permanently about 200 student projects in the context of research and development.