The low carbon technology centre will open next door to Coventry University’s recently-launched £7m National Transport Design Centre, creating a cluster of transport-focused research and development facilities on the university’s Technology Park.
Four state-of-the-art powertrain test cells will allow researchers and engineers to test and improve performance and emissions on a range of powertrain concepts, including hybridised, electric, conventional and alternative fuel propulsion systems.
Professor John Latham, vice-chancellor of Coventry University, said: “Coventry and the wider Midlands clearly remain a draw for international companies wanting to push forward innovation in vehicle design and development, particularly in clean transport technologies.”
FEV already works with a number of leading UK automotive and aerospace companies that are expected to use the facility to develop cleaner transport technologies, with a significant area of work set to be advanced propulsion systems – a key innovation theme identified in the UK government’s industrial strategy.
The collaboration marks a significant level of confidence on the continent in British manufacturing and in the impact of UK universities’ research, the university’s leaders said, and signals an expansion of FEV’s work with the UK transport industry and supply chain.
Professor Stefan Pischinger, president and CEO of FEV Group, said: “Close cooperation with leading universities has always been a crucial aspect which strengthens the innovative capability of FEV. The cooperation will strengthen our presence in the UK and offers a great base for future development projects to achieve lowest emission mobility.”
Last year Coventry University’s Institute for Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering secured a contract with Ford to supply advanced components to its cars being produced in China, creating 40 jobs in the city.
