Skoda opens state-of-the-art simulation center

After two and a half years of construction, Skoda has inaugurated a new simulation center at its headquarters in Mladá Boleslav and also expanded the previous emissions center. The laboratory, built with an investment volume of 22 million euros, enables test series under different climatic conditions. The focus is on drive and thermal management systems. In addition to the development of new technologies, the simulation and emissions center is also used for the quality assurance of series vehicles. Up to 850 tests per year are planned, covering current and future regulatory standards of the European Union, China, India, Brazil and other regions of the world.

The facility, which is considered unique in the VW Group, can map temperatures between minus seven degrees and 50 degrees Celsius. In addition, 10 to 95 percent humidity can be simulated - which is very important for regions such as India, where Skoda has Group-wide market responsibility - as well as solar radiation and mountain driving at altitudes of up to 5500 meters above sea level. The laboratory includes a modern chassis dynamometer for vehicles with an output of up to 300 kW (408 hp), which enables simulated driving at speeds of up to 265 km/h. The building is also equipped with two blowers for airflow simulation, an emissions analysis system and a high-speed charging station for electric vehicles with up to 400 kW.

As part of the new building, the existing emissions center was expanded and adapted to meet the requirements of the Euro 7 emissions standard and other possible new requirements.

Thanks to the new opening, Skoda can assume even greater responsibility for the development of the Group's MQB27 platform and manage the overall development of the EA211 combustion engine series, including ancillary systems such as air intake, exhaust system, cooling and thermal management. The Czech car manufacturer will also be responsible for the associated manual gearboxes and linking them to the DQ200 automatic direct-shift gearbox. (aum)