Smithers to expand winter tire testing center

AKRON — Testing services company Smithers Rapra is embarking on a major expansion of its winter test center near Brimley, Mich., to be opened mid-January 2018.

The additions include 130 acres with new track surfaces, a conference center, cafeteria and two rental buildings. Smithers Rapra did not disclose the investment.

The 130-acre track expansion will comprise:

• 38 acres for developing a large snow field, deep snow area, and expanded ice area;

• 13 acres dedicated to demonstrations, training, and exclusive use tied to the new conference building;

• 30 acres for an exclusive track with a testing partner on site; and

• 49 acres available to other testing partners to expand.

"Our Winter Test Center can fulfill just about any testing for snowy or icy surfaces; the new additions of space and facilities will give our clients a winter 'whiteboard,' where we can recreate almost any scenario they wish," said Jim Popio, vice president, North America, Smithers Rapra.

"Automotive components need to meet the challenges of real world conditions, and winter driving can be some of the most challenging terrain for development engineers to consider in their development efforts."

The 5,304-sq.-ft. multi-purpose conference space will include a large open area holding up to 115 people, a divider wall for multiple room configurations, a small group meeting room for 12-14 people, and a private kitchen area for food prep, the company said.

Two new on-site rental buildings will feature furnished office space for clients, with a double-bay garage, a kitchen area and wireless Internet access.

"Having a space to showcase new vehicle technology and hold driving events, as well as supporting on-site staff with a cafeteria, was a critical need for our clients," said Sean Connolly, general manager, Smithers Winter Test Center.

"The expansions at our winter proving grounds will address these needs, while providing additional track space for driving and training events, along with new testing areas. The new facility will also be a great asset to the local community for events and meetings. "

The Smithers Winter Test Center features more than 750 acres of snow, ice and bare pavement surfaces. The facility is staffed by more than 40 employees who create and maintain a variety of snow, ice, and dry area surfaces, the company said.

The facility can test a variety of vehicle types, from small automobiles to Class 8 trucks, vehicle components, snow handling equipment, construction equipment, recreational sport vehicles, and military equipment, according to Smithers.

Smithers Rapra operates laboratories in North America, Europe and China, covering a wide variety of testing and consulting services from material chemistry and product durability testing, to tire, wheel, and winter testing.

For more information, visit www.smithersrapra.com.