Manoj Desai has taken on a new role as Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), as announced in a LinkedIn post. In this position, he will be responsible for information security leadership at the automotive research organisation.
Desai brings experience in automotive technology, engineering and cybersecurity. His professional background includes work at ARAI, where he has served as Deputy Director. He has also been associated with research and technical initiatives related to electric and hybrid electric vehicles, traction batteries, electric vehicle charging systems and electric motors.
ARAI is an automotive research and development organisation established in 1966 by the Indian automotive industry in association with the Government of India. Based in Pune, it provides engineering services, research and development, testing, certification, standardisation and validation services to the automotive sector.
As vehicles become increasingly connected and software-driven, cybersecurity has become an important consideration for automakers and automotive technology developers. Connected vehicle systems, electronic control units and digital infrastructure create new security requirements for manufacturers and research organisations.
ARAI has also highlighted cybersecurity as an emerging concern for India’s automotive industry. In July 2026, ARAI Director Reji Mathai spoke about the sector’s preparedness for cyberattacks and the need for long-term solutions as vehicles incorporate more software and connected technologies.
Desai’s appointment places information security leadership within an organisation that supports automotive research, testing and technology development. His technical background and experience at ARAI are relevant to the organisation’s work across evolving automotive technologies.
 at the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI)...){kind=link}