Industry News
Scaling test tools for production: the hidden challenge
When a Formula 1 car takes a corner at 150mph or a jet engine powers up mid-flight, there is no room for error. Every component, every system has already been pushed to its limits in controlled conditions long before it sees real-world action. Beth Ragdale, software business manager at automation specialist Beckhoff UK, explains why building the tools to run those tests and scaling them for production is a challenge that machine builders are quietly wrestling with
Test benches have long played a critical role in research and development.
Prototypes take center stage at Goodwood Festival of Speed 2025
Several new vehicle prototypes – many previously covered by ATTI – are on display at the 2025 Goodwood Festival of Speed, running through Sunday, July 13.
Standout models include the Porsche Cayenne, Aston Martin Valhalla, the Toyota GR GT Concept, BMW’s ‘Heart of Joy’ prototype, a Hyundai Ioniq 6 N Drift, the Zenvo Aurora, Gordon Murray Automotive’s electric T.25 city car and the Renault 5 Turbo 3E, among others.
The September issue of the magazine will feature an interview with Nik Hoyle, director of mechanical design at Gordon Murray Advanced Engineering.
FEV opens new China headquarters
FEV has established a new China headquarters in the Anting district of Shanghai with the signing of a site agreement.
With the new headquarters, FEV China is looking to further expand its strategic presence in the Chinese global automotive industry and lay the foundation for closer cooperation with regional partners in the areas of sustainable powertrain technologies and intelligent mobility.
“FEV has been a reliable partner to the Chinese automotive industry for many years,” said Cagri Cevik, executive vice president, FEV China.
Continue reading FEV opens new China headquarters at Automotive Testing Technology International.
MAE develops ultra lightweight tow dynamometer for Kubota UTVs
Kubota Tractor, an agricultural and utility vehicle manufacturer, has partnered with Mustang Advanced Engineering (MAE) to enhance the research and development capabilities of its consumer-level utility terrain vehicles (UTVs) and powersport recreational vehicles. The primary goal was to develop a high-performance, lightweight tow dynamometer tailored for comprehensive R&D testing.
Kubota sought a portable and efficient dynamometer that could accurately simulate real-world towing loads for UTVs and recreational vehicles, without the burden of excessive size or weight.
Bentley and MHP Consulting partner on cybersecurity
In a two-year project, MHP Consulting and Bentley Motors have worked together to develop robust cybersecurity and software update management systems (CSMS and SUMS) tailored to the Bentley landscape, ensuring compliance with the UNECE World Forum for Harmonization of Vehicle Regulations (WP.29). Bentley has successfully achieved certification with zero non-conformities.
As of July 2024, OEMs must adhere to the UNECE regulations to sell any vehicle and product within its 56 member states. Notably, the key regulations include R155, which focuses on cybersecurity, and R156, which addresses software updates.
Messring completes new crash test facility for Mahindra in India
A state-of-the-art crash test facility for Indian vehicle manufacturer Mahindra has been completed and commissioned by Messring in the southern state of Tamil Nadu.
The facility meets the highest international standards and enables all relevant crash tests for both conventional and electric vehicles. The facility includes a 316m crash track equipped with Messring’s MicroTrack for precise vehicle guidance. It also includes an octagonal film pit, a rollover foundation for rollover testing and a recently developed laterally mobile crash block.
Mercedes-Benz VLE electric vehicle tests long-distance capabilities on journey from Stuttgart to Rome
Two Mercedes-Benz VLE test vehicles have made the trip from Stuttgart to Rome, travelling 1,090km (about 677 miles) in flowing traffic in roughly 13 hours, with two 15-minute charging stops. The route included winding, steep mountain passes through the Alps, long highway stretches, busy rural roads and tight city streets. The VLE performance in the practical test demonstrated its potential for family use and outdoor activities, the auto maker said.
The long-distance tests focused on everyday performance, specifically the efficiency of the electric drivetrain, energy recuperation, thermal management and how rear-axle steering affects handling.
US launch for nVent’s all-in-one power distribution unit safety system
The nVent Schroff Rack Safety Plus power distribution unit (PDU) – a safety solution designed for both partially and fully automated test systems – has been launched on the US market.
The solution is built to help teams cut down on lead times, reduce costs and eliminate safety risks. Users can choose from several standard versions or quickly configure a custom setup — with up to 300,000 options available.
All configurations, whether standard or modified, are UL certified, offering a more reliable and efficient alternative to in-house builds.