Coventry University's Centre for Advanced Low-Carbon Propulsion Systems 

Our team of science sector specialists delivered a facility which will continue Coventry’s place as a world-leading centre for the automotive industry.

The Centre for Advanced Low-Carbon Propulsion Systems (C-ALPS) brings together the latest technology to deliver engine testing and research into sustainable power concepts. It will produce the next-generation electric, hybrid and petrol/diesel engines to power our economy.

Powerhouse

C-ALPS houses some of the most advanced test facilities currently in the UK and is available to car makers, airplane manufacturers, small and medium-sized companies to accelerate the creation of new powertrain solutions for use across automotive, aerospace, marine and rail sectors. It will allow experts from across the world to conduct research into vehicle hybridisation, electrification, plus enhancement of conventional and alternative fuel-based powertrains to meet the requirements of future transportation and future cities.

Collaboration

It is part of a multi-million-pound long-term collaboration between Coventry University and FEV, the international leader in design and development of advanced gasoline, diesel and hybrid powertrains and vehicle systems.

Our new clean transport technology centre spearheads world-leading research into advanced powertrain (the main components that generate drive for a motor vehicle) development over the next decade. Four state-of-the-art powertrain test cells will allow FEV’s and the university’s researchers and engineers to test and improve performance and emissions on a range of different powertrain concepts, including hybridized, electric, conventional and alternative fuel-based powertrains.

FEV and Coventry University will develop new low carbon technology

The new low carbon technology centre opens next door to Coventry University’s recently-launched National Transport Design Centre (NTDC), creating a cluster of transport-focused research and development facilities on the university’s Technology Park.

The project will provide Coventry University with strong links into the engineering industry and as such create fantastic opportunities for both students and the local community which has a strong automotive heritage.

Professor Richard Dashwood, deputy vice-chancellor for research at Coventry University:

“This collaboration is very encouraging news and a welcome boost for the UK automotive industry. We have a real opportunity for the country to lead the rest of the world when it comes to developing low carbon propulsion systems and C-ALPS has a major role to play in making this happen. It’s all about bringing the best of both worlds together, using the expertise and track record of FEV Group in engineering consultancy and combining it with the academic knowledge of our professors to create a real centre of excellence that can attract funding, build capacity in the supply chain and, importantly, offer commercial testing services to car makers. Automotive is naturally the first target, but the technology will also be available to support the evolution of other sectors.”

Offices and labs together

The development – procured through the Scape Major Works Framework – has created five testing cells, offices, a workshop, car parking and soft landscaping.

It took 50 weeks to complete, focused on real collaboration between industry, the university, and Willmott Dixon and its design and supply chain partners. NG Bailey, a leading independent engineering and services business, was central to the delivery of the mechanical and electrical components of the build.

Collaboration and local legacy

This is the fourth project we have undertaken for Coventry University following the creation of its new-build Scarborough campus and recently completed works on the London Campus in Dagenham and Mile Lane in Coventry.

Throughout the project, we engaged with the local community to held 397 careers workshops, 551 site visits and provided 88 weeks of work experience. Alongside this, the contractor was awarded a Performance Beyond Compliance certificate from Considerate Constructors Scheme for its work to support the local community alongside Coventry University.

C-ALPS is now operated by FEV as an independent and highly efficient test centre for its clients in the UK and other markets in which it operates.

In the press...

Read pcb today's article - Digital collaboration unlocks German testing environment in the UK