U.K. group buying Finnish winter test site

MILLBROOK, England (Sept. 16, 2015) — Millbrook Proving Ground Ltd. is buying Test World Oy, a winter vehicle and tire testing group in Ivalo, Finland, with both indoor and outdoor testing facilities.

Millbrook Proving Ground, an independent technology center for the design, engineering, test and development of automotive and propulsion systems, called the pending acquisition a “significant step…to increase its capabilities and expand its relationships internationally.”

The Test World deal follows a number of other investments this year, including upgrades to engine dynos, additional capacity in portable emissions measurement, increased capabilities within the crash test department and the development of a technology park.

“We are looking forward to working with Test World's excellent customer base and sharing our engineering expertise to enhance the services and facilities provided to all of our customers, both in the U.K. and internationally,” Millbrook CEO Alex Burns said.

Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Test World has unique and versatile facilities, including specialist tire testing capabilities and a range of winter tracks at two locations, one adjacent to the Ivalo airport and one three miles east of Ivalo.

Millbrook also said the deal will provide Test World better access to capital, making it easier to invest and further develop its test facilities.

Test World Managing Director Turo Tiilila said, “This…will enable us to offer an all-inclusive test, validation and engineering service to the worldwide automotive industry. We are delighted to be working with the team at Millbrook to move the combined business forward.”

Test World Oy broke ground in 2012 on its indoor winter test center for tires and vehicles, which is scheduled to be completed by year-end 2015.

Test World's existing management will remain with the business to provide continuity to customers and partners.  

For further information about Millbrook, visit www.millbrook.co.uk.