Rudolf Cutinho

• Led the project to introduce next-generation pre-tensioner seatbelt technology in the Eturna—India's first vehicle to integrate this safety feature.
• Directed VAVE initiatives including DAJ buckle removal in Safari, achieving significant cost and complexity reduction.
• Managed cross-functional packaging studies ensuring seamless integration of seatbelt systems with wiring harnesses and vehicle architecture.
• Spearheaded standardization of seatbelt connectors across multiple platforms (Harrier, Eturna), optimizing BOM and manufacturing.
• Coordinated feasibility studies for motorized retractors and integration of electronic sensors for enhanced safety regulation compliance.
• Led collaborative efforts on airbag and seatbelt packaging involving suppliers, design, and validation teams.
• Developed and maintained detailed project schedules using Microsoft Project to track progress and meet key milestones.
• Facilitated weekly stakeholder meetings to report progress, resolve issues, and align cross-functional team goals.
• Supported DFMEA sessions and led design validation activities for newly developed safety systems.

Added Project Highlights:

• Developed ventilated steering wheels incorporating internal blowers for enhanced driver comfort.
• Led design of LED bar-integrated steering wheels providing visual alerts for ADAS and driver condition feedback.

• Managed project development of ADAS Level 2 steering wheels with integrated hands-on detection (HOD) and heating elements.
• Oversaw restraint systems (airbags, seatbelts, steering wheels) for Citroën Sedan and Jeep Meridian programs.
• Directed design reviews to align with regulatory, functional, and packaging standards.
• Created and implemented CV, DV, PV test plans in compliance with ECE R16, IS15140, and FCA requirements.
• Streamlined manufacturing processes through design complexity reduction and localization of critical components.
• Conducted supplier assessments and design feasibility reviews to ensure cost, quality, and timing targets were met.
• Coordinated with international teams to align engineering design and validation plans with global standards.

• Owned global seatbelt core component design updates and communication.
• Led tool development (plastic, die-casting, sheet metal) for seatbelt component manufacturing.
• Directed VAVE projects and DFMEA validations to optimize cost and robustness.
• Integrated car/webbing sensors into seatbelt systems in compliance with evolving regulations.
• Managed 8D analyses and resolved customer/OEM (MSIL, Hyundai, M&M) concerns.
• Approved PPAP and conducted EBOM creation for new product localizations.
• Supported manufacturing by addressing line-side issues and implementing rapid engineering countermeasures.
• Conducted benchmarking and competitor analysis to improve product robustness and support innovation initiatives.