Spanish carmaker SEAT has started construction on a new £6.3m battery and energy systems test facility in its Barcelona plant.
The 1,500m2 Test Centre Energy, which will enable testing of vehicles, cell modules and battery technology with 1.3MW capacity, is part of SEAT’s investment and commitment to electrification.
Reportedly the first of its kind in Spain, the new lab will feature spaces to evaluate lithium-ion technology, medium- and high-voltage batteries and a range of different chargers. There will also be climatic chambers to simulate thermal conditions and environments a battery and vehicle may operate in.
Furthermore, a workshop will be set up for simultaneous testing of up to six EVs to assess the performance of energy systems, functional safety and integration of functions. Artificial vision systems will also be incorporated into the instrumentation.
Werner Tietz, SEAT vice president of R&D, said: “SEAT has been committed to the electrification of the company for years and the construction of the unique new Test Centre Energy in Spain is a firm step in this direction.
“This new battery lab will enable us to develop the energy systems of future hybrid and electric vehicles, thus contributing to the creation of sustainable electromobility.”
SEAT said it aims for construction of the facility to be completed in April 2021.
