Test World has opened its new indoor test facilities in Ivalo, Finland, at a launch event attended by customers, dignitaries and journalists from around the world. The recently constructed indoor facilities – increasing Test World’s capacity and capability for year-round cold weather testing – allow for simultaneous, controlled and repeatable testing on snow, ice, and wet and dry asphalt, 365 days a year.

Guests at the launch event were given tours of the indoor and outdoor test tracks, showcasing how the expansion allows Test World to offer the longest winter test schedule and most stable test conditions in Europe. Live demonstrations showed guests the potential applications of the indoor facilities, with selected guests given time to drive on the variety of surfaces available. Speeches at the opening ceremony were given by Alex Burns, President of Millbrook and Janne Seurujärvi, Managing Director of Test World.

The latest indoor facility comprises of an asphalt track, totalling 410m in length, with wet and dry braking and longitudinal aquaplaning areas. This brings the total length of Test World’s indoor test tracks to 1.6km. They allow speeds in excess of 100km/h, and offer independent control of surface temperature and air temperature. In addition, a series of cold boxes with direct access onto the test tracks can be used to soak vehicles to -40°C prior to testing.

The latest expansion comes as a result of continued investment in Test World since its founding in 1991. The additional facilities accommodate more requirements of vehicle and tyre manufacturers and provide extra capacity. Test World offers a wide range of vehicle testing opportunities, including powertrain driveability, vehicle system operability, braking, traction systems and, of course, extensive tyre testing capabilities. With accurate and reliable data, customers can develop products with enhanced safety, quality and performance.

“The opening of our brand-new indoor test facilities has added a whole new dimension to the testing that we are able to offer,” said Janne Seurujärvi, Managing Director at Test World. “By maintaining a full range of winter environments throughout the year, we ensure that customers can avoid any seasonal restrictions that they may encounter elsewhere. As all test surfaces are in one place, they can save time and money on unnecessary travel and complex logistics to other parts of the world. Ultimately, this allows customers to benefit from shorter development cycles and to launch their products to market sooner.”

Test World has its own test team that carries out evaluations for customers, from tyre manufacturers to vehicle manufacturers and industry suppliers, providing a fast and reliable service throughout the year. The team also travels the world to support customers with summer tyre testing at various locations. In addition, Test World’s innovative facilities are available to customers wishing carry out their own test programmes.

For further information about Test World and examples of tests listed above, email office@testworld.fi or call +358 (0)44 778 8800