FEV: CUTTING-EDGE TEST FACILITY FOR ZERO-EMISSION DRIVE TECHNOLOGIES

The Centre for Advanced Low Carbon Propulsion Systems (C-ALPS), which FEV operates in Coventry together with the local university, offers comprehensive testing capabilities for sustainable propulsion systems.

In 2019, FEV and Coventry University initially invested in C-ALPS, to conduct joint research with international automotive manufacturers and e-mobility startups for the further development of zero-emission drive systems. Thanks to modern equipment it is possible to test prototypes and pre-production designs of sustainable drive concepts in a 100 m² special hydrogen test laboratory and on a total of five test benches.

FEV and Coventry University recently upgraded these test benches comprehensively to a state-of-the-art hydrogen facility. The test beds allow the testing of aggregates with an output of up to 650 kW. In the future, these units will be installed in trains, ships, and aircraft. Close collaboration with UK’s leading hydrogen refuelling business, “Element 2” ensures that sufficient quantities of low carbon Fuel Cell grade (ISO 14687) hydrogen can always be supplied for the various test scenarios.

With C-ALPS, FEV and Coventry University are addressing the continued growth in demand from vehicle manufacturers for development and testing capacity in the field of sustainable mobility. Both British and international OEMs and developers will benefit from the unique combination of academic expertise, long-term development, and engineering know-how.