Kia will undertake testing of future models destined for Europe at a brand new test centre at the Nürburgring in Germany. The facility is the result of a €6.62 million investment by Hyundai Motor Group, the parent company of the Kia and Hyundai brands. The completion of the purpose-built vehicle testing facility boosts the group’s R&D operations in Europe and represents the latest in a number of investments in its regional infrastructure.
The new test centre provides Kia with a full-time presence at the iconic Nürburgring circuit, allowing it to further evaluate and develop the durability and driving dynamics of its vehicles more effectively and more often.
Construction of the striking 3,622 m2 test centre began in June 2012 and was completed in less than 15 months. The modern glass and steel building houses workshops, office spaces and hospitality areas over four floors. The Nürburgring facility is an extension of the group’s European R&D centre in Rüsselsheim, Germany, where Kia’s European engineering facilities are based.
The Nürburgring – also known as the ‘Green Hell’ – is widely recognised as one of the most challenging tracks in the world, with 73 corners – 33 left and 40 right –spread over 20.8 kilometres. With a difference in height of almost 300 metres between highest and lowest points, it features uphill and downhill gradients of 17 and 11 per cent respectively. As a result, the circuit is ideal for conducting the most demanding vehicle tests, including the ‘accelerated endurance test’ where vehicles can be driven 480 laps within the space of only a few weeks. This 10,000 kilometres test procedure simulates the equivalent of over 150,000 kms under ordinary driving conditions, providing valuable data and test-driver feedback to development engineers. The new test centre allows engineers to evaluate the data on the spot and in real time, and to make modifications while test cycles are underway.
Michael Cole, COO of Kia Motors Europe, commented: “The Nürburgring is renowned as one of the most formidable challenges for any car. Having a dedicated, permanent facility at the track will enable Kia engineers to maximise the effectiveness of the development testing undertaken there.
“As the dynamic performance of Kia models becomes an even greater focus for us – spearheaded by the new Kia pro_cee’d GT and cee’d GT models launched recently – getting the best results from the best facilities such as this is more crucial than ever.”
Photo courtesy of Kia Canada Inc.
