Prodrive has opened its new Powertrain Development Centre (PDC). Located at the company’s Banbury, UK, HQ, the purpose-built facility represents a US$6.1m (£5m) investment and was constructed over a period of six months.
The installation reinforces the company’s ability to develop next-gen electric, hybrid and internal combustion engines for road and competition applications, while strengthening the expertise and services it offers existing motorsport and technology clients.
“The PDC marks a massive step forward in terms of our engine development capability and complements our existing skills in the design and development of all types of powertrain,” said Arthur Shaw, chief powertrain engineer, Prodrive.
Core to the project is a 660kW transient dyno, which with temperature, humidity and pressure-controlled induction air can replicate all running conditions, as well as provide cooling for EV batteries and motors.
Able to handle engine outputs of up to 892ps, the dyno is located on an adjustable, modular grid system. This ensures that Prodrive can tailor it to the layout of any powertrain, including the ability to test a full four-wheel-drive electric/hybrid drivetrain.
“It’s one of the biggest investments Prodrive has ever made, but with our motorsport operations continuing to grow at a pace and increasing enquiries for the development of complex electric vehicle and hybrid technology, now is the optimum time for us to introduce our Powertrain Development Centre,” added Shaw.
Complementing the transient dyno cell is a dedicated engine build room, fitted out by Dura, which can accommodate the assembly of up to 12 units. This capability enhances the company’s ability to build complete vehicles and cater for niche OEM projects requiring between 200 and 300 units in short timeframes.