U.K. R&D Center Upgrades Powertrain Labs

The U.K.'s Millbrook Proving Grounds Ltd. is investing 1.83 million ($2.9 million) in its powertrain test facilities. As part of the investment, Millbrook will upgrade its test bed software to enable more complex tests with greater precision, efficiency and reliability. Millbrook says it now will be able offer full emissions development capability, including cold start (-40 C) engine calibration and advanced road-load modeling. The facility also is adding new equipment that will be used to develop next-generation direct-injection gasoline and diesel engines.

The new investment is in addition to several other recent upgrades. Last month, Millbrook announced plans for a new noise measurement system and portable emissions test system as well as upgrades to its 12 engine dynamometers and crash testing capabilities.

The NVH system will allow Millbrook to measure acoustics and vibration inside a vehicle, which the firm plans to use for a variety of applications including hybrid and electric vehicles.

Originally owned by General Motors, the 665-acre proving grounds was opened in 1969 on a former British Air Force base. Rutland Partners LLP, a London-based investment firm, purchased Millbrook from GM which remains a top customer in late 2013. The proving grounds includes 45 miles of on- and off-road test tracks, and several engineering, testing and validation facilities.