Global test service provider UTAC has set up a new e-powertrain development facility in the USA housing a raft of equipment for assessing electric powertrain systems and components. These resources provide more power, torque and speed capabilities to meet customer requirements. From this new location, the supplier also offers engineering expertise as well as design and build of test systems.
According to the company, it has a strong EV business in the USA and the new hub in Northville, Michigan, will support UTAC’s other three centers in Hayward, California, and in Livonia, Michigan.
Lauren Benoit, president of UTAC, said, “There are three main activities which are part of our strategy – performing tests for customers, development of complete test systems, and engineering services.”
Existing evaluation equipment is being transferred over. Meanwhile brand-new motor analysis units that can test at speeds up to 25,000rpm have been installed, a new NVH test system enabling 1E, 2E, 3E and 4E and ICE configurations; an NVH shaker for pack and EDU analysis; a 1MW battery simulator capable of 1,000V DC and 1,200 A DC in overload for 60 sec (1.2MW) or 1,000A continuous; and an environmental chamber enabling thermal shock, thermal cycling and water/dust emersion testing are also part of the inventory.
As well as offering first-class electrification development resources in one place, the asset provides a clean, efficient working environment. All cells run off the same system, adopt the same operating and control principles and have the same strict level of confidentiality, Benoit noted.
By the end of next year, UTAC aims to have all 40 test cells up and running. Benoit commented,, “The number of cells [up and running] will increase month by month as we transfer equipment. In terms of the new equipment, we are in the process of learning to understand these systems.”
Another massive benefit of moving to the facility, which enables evaluation of all types of e-powertrain and e-drive configurations and components for vehicle types from passenger cars through to commercial vehicles, is the increase in energy capacity, which can be doubled in future if required.
Benoit added that UTAC is in the process of installing a cutting-edge battery test area at the General Motors headquarters in Milford, Michigan.
