Centre for Automotive Engineering (Automotive Centre), formerly known as the Automotive Engineering Centre (AEC), was officially established on 1st February 2008. Prior to its establishment, the Automotive Focus Group—which was responsible for all automotive-related activities in UMP—had already been formed. In 2007, the Automotive Focus Group proposed to UMP’s top management the development of a specialised centre for automotive engineering research, known then as the Automotive Development Centre.

Automotive engineering research continues to play a vital role and remains indispensable to the growth and technological advancement of any nation. In this context, research activities in the field are expanding rapidly, yet many challenges remain unresolved. This makes the pursuit of automotive studies one of the most exciting and demanding areas in advancing the frontiers of knowledge. To support the expansion of automotive research, the Automotive Centre organized the 1st International Conference on Automotive Innovation and Green Energy Vehicle (AiGEV 2014), held on 26–27 August 2014 at Swiss Garden Resort & Spa, Kuantan, Pahang. AiGEV 2014 provided a platform for researchers and practitioners from academia, industry, and government to share research findings and discuss future developments.

The second conference, AiGEV 2016, was held on 2–3 August 2016 at the Malaysia Automotive Institute (MAI), Cyberjaya, Selangor; the third, AiGEV 2018, on 25–26 July 2018 at Hotel Seri Manja Boutique, Kuantan, Pahang; and the fourth, AiGEV 2020, was conducted virtually on 10–11 November 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The latest edition, AiGEV 2022, was successfully held on 5–6 December 2022 in Langkawi, Malaysia.

This biennial conference continued with the 6th edition, AiGEV 2024, tentatively scheduled for 16–18 September 2024 in Putrajaya, Malaysia.

Building on the success of previous editions, the AiGEV series continues to strengthen its position as a leading platform for advancing automotive innovation and green mobility. The 7th AiGEV 2026, to be held at The Ship Campus, Penang, will introduce expanded technical sessions, industry-focused activities, and broader international collaborations supporting the global transition toward sustainable transportation.

With enhanced experiential components such as technical visits, short-course training, and a curated Penang cultural tour, AiGEV 2026 aims to deliver a richer and more impactful experience for researchers, industry partners, and policymakers. We look forward to welcoming all delegates to Penang in Sept 2026.

We welcome your participation and hope to see you there.