Perhaps the most remarkable aspect, though, is the accuracy of each test. “There are tight tolerances in terms of alignment,” Stewart explained. “The target speed here was 50km/h, and we achieved 50.1km/h – you’re allowed plus or minus 1km/h deviation, so that’s quite a result.” It’s clear to see the pride on show among the centre’s staff following the refit.
“The UK has never had this level of passive testing capability before,” added Stewart. “Opening our new Crash Facility is a landmark moment, allowing us to support all legislative and consumer standards, as well as the important vehicle development work that supports the global automotive industry’s bid to design safer vehicles.”
But do we still need physical crash tests, given developments in advanced computer simulation systems and artificial intelligence (AI), especially given how expensive each one is? According to Stewart, it’s a question of not only ethics, but also scientific variables. “You have to consider material strength, the density of seat foam, the way an airbag deploys – all of these can’t be represented on a computer model,” he said. “They get close, but you still need that physical test.”
Auto Express also spoke to Matthew Avery, Director for Strategic Development at Euro NCAP. “It’s great that, for the first time ever in the UK, we’ve got a facility that can perform the most exacting test Euro NCAP has ever undertaken,” he said. “Everyone has an obligation to be driving as safe a vehicle as they can – bear in mind that vehicles not only protect themselves in a crash but also other road users.”
While Horiba Mira’s ability to provide UK manufacturers with the means to crash test their cars without the need to go abroad brings with it financial benefits, as well as being the subject of national pride, the new crash test facilities appear to be just the beginning for the company. It is also developing a brand-new sophisticated autonomous driving centre in which various scenarios can be simulated in order to properly evaluate advanced driver-assistance functions.
In addition, Horiba Mira’s also planning to crash test lorries, with a focus on protecting other road users – primarily vulnerable car drivers.
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