Mike Hawes pictured, chief executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, opened the new £6.5 million powertrain testing facility built by automotive engineering specialist Intertek at its Transportation Technologies centre in Blakelands.
He told guests: “Intertek is in a brilliant place thanks to these facilities and they can really ride the wave. These facilities are at the forefront of the automotive sector.
“I am confident the impressive specifications of the new test equipment will support Intertek as a European Centre of Excellence for hybrid and electric vehicle driveline development.”
Intertek has also invested in low carbon vehicle and electric machine test cells at its facility. The firm has installed six engine test cells, four of which are already in full operation. The remaining two will be commissioned in August.
The investment is the latest in a steady flow from parent company Interek UK since it acquired the business, formerly Tickford Powertrain Test Ltd, in 2013.
Intertek Transportation Technologies managing director Tony Braddon said: “This is an exciting time for us and our industry. Our staff work in partnership with the cream of Britain’s automotive manufacturing industry to test and develop their powertrains to ensure they are the best they can be.”
Intertek UK chief executive Rob van Dorp, said, “Intertek Transportation Technologies has been able to invest in our facilities here in the UK to ensure that UK companies continue to invest in the UK economy rather than having to look abroad for this expertise.
“Our customers expect us to lead the way in automotive testing to enable them to stay ahead. By investing in state-of-the-art testing facilities, we can help make sure their vehicles remain the best in the world.”
