The new $20 million Advanced Centre for Automotive Research and Testing (ACART) at Ford's Proving Ground and the University of Melbourne will increase the competitiveness of Australia's automotive industry through the availability of world-class emissions, environmental and engine development facilities.
The development of a multi-fuel emissions cell, an environmental testing laboratory and an engine dynamometer facility provides Australian automotive companies and suppliers with access to world-class facilities that were previously unavailable in Australia.
Established to enhance the technical competitiveness of Ford Australia and the quality of academic research and testing at the University of Melbourne, ACART will also be available for other automotive manufacturers and suppliers for use on a commercial basis.
ACART was officially opened today by the Victorian Minister for Environment and Climate Change, the Hon Gavin Jennings, Ford Australia President & CEO Marin Burela, and Dean of the School of Engineering, Melbourne University Professor Iven Mareels at the recently completed environmental testing laboratory at Ford's Proving Ground.
"The collaboration and investment undertaken between Ford, the University of Melbourne and the Victorian State Government on the ACART project highlights a continued confidence in the future of our industry in Australia," said Ford Australia President & CEO Marin Burela. "These new facilities present an exciting opportunity for Ford to work with the University of Melbourne, with assistance from the State Government, to make a real difference to environmental research and development in Victoria.
"The project also demonstrates our commitment to technological leadership, and helps build Ford's capability as an innovative and progressive manufacturer dedicated to improving future product."
Recent development work undertaken using the completed ACART facilities has seen a significant improvement in the fuel economy and reduced emissions of Ford's volume selling Falcon sedan.
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