Independent vehicle test, validation and engineering service provider Millbrook has announced further investment in its powertrain facilities to expand its capacity and increase its capability to develop higher technology and lower emission and fuel economy engines and vehicles.

This latest investment follow the upgrade of nine test cells in 2015 and will include a further four engine test cells, a new fuel blending facility, four-wheel drive chassis dyno test cell and additional soak space and advanced climatic capability.

Building work is set to commence next month, following an adjusted road layout, which includes installation of new power-lines and a new fire ring mains system to accommodate the new building.

Expected to be operational by November, the new four-wheel drive dynamometer facility will be fully compliant with the new world light duty and test procedures (WLTP) and will enable Millbrook to test four-wheel drive, high-performance and complex hybrid and electric vehicles, to reduce tailpipe emissions, improve fuel economy and ultimately to support the development of low carbon vehicles and less polluting fuels.

Phil Stones, head of powertrain – emissions and fuel economy at Millbrook, said: “This new facility will help to cement our position as the UK’s number one facility for benchmarking and developing the most advanced powertrains for future vehicles.”