Smithers Rapra, a world leading rubber and plastics consultancy based in Akron, Ohio in the US, is expanding its Smithers Winter Test Center in Michigan, adding 130 acres and new buildings to the existing 750-acre facility.
The larger and improved testing centre in Brimley, on Michigan’s Upper Peninsula along Lake Superior near the Canadian border, is expected to open by the middle of January.
The additions include a conference centre, cafeteria, 130 acres with new track surfaces and two rental buildings.
“Having a space to showcase new vehicle technology and hold driving events, as well as supporting on-site staff with a cafeteria, was a critical need for our clients,” Sean Connolly, test center general manager, said in a news release.
The expansion also will provide additional track space for driving and training events, and new testing areas, he said. The local community can also use the new facility for events and meetings.
The privately held company did not say how much it was spending on the project.
The expansion includes a 5,304-square-foot multipurpose conference space and two on-site rental buildings with furnished office space for clients.
The 130-acre track expansion will include 38 acres for developing a large snow field, deep-snow area and expanded ice area. Other parts of the expanded track will be dedicated for other purposes.
“The new additions of space and facilities will give our clients a winter ‘whiteboard,’ where we can re-create almost any scenario they wish,” Jim Popio, vice president, North America, said in a release.
“Automotive components need to meet the challenges of real world conditions, and winter driving can be some of the most challenging terrain for development engineers to consider in their development efforts.”
With over 40 people working at the site, the facility can be used to test small automobiles to Class 8 trucks, components, snow handling equipment, construction equipment, recreational sport vehicles, and military equipment, the company said.