MAHLE Powertrain boosts jobs with emissions test centre funding

Development of the multi-million-pound MAHLE Powertrain technology centre on St. James Mill Road is already underway, with the site expected to be completed in mid-2018. The centre of automotive excellence is part of the regionÂ’s economic plan to create a knowledge hub capable of competing on the world stage and will support the businessÂ’ drive to develop the next generation of lighter, cleaner and more efficient powertrains.



Commenting on the funding, Dave Beecroft, director of sales and marketing at MAHLE Powertrain, said: “We have worked hard with SEMLEP to secure this investment as part of an ongoing plan to expand and enhance our vehicle emissions testing capability in Northampton. This funding will allow us to grow the business and create employment opportunities by placing us at the forefront of the requirements of the new Real Driving Emissions legislation, which comes into force later this year.”


The new centre will see MAHLE Powertrain, which works with vehicle manufacturers across the world, offer an even broader range of test services. From on-the-road PEMS (portable emissions measurement system) through to dyno-based road simulations and comprehensive emissions testing, manufacturers will be able to complete full testing regimes in the UK, meeting stringent new air quality and environmental targets.


In addition, the centre will allow MAHLE Powertrain to fully simulate the new test cycle, with the added ability to control the atmospheric pressure within the chamber, a first for the UK. Simulating altitudes of up to 5,000 metres, allows insight into how engines perform in vastly different environments, meaning results are much more comprehensive.


Backed by a Government fund of £59m, the investment builds on the recent National Infrastructure Commission report and the publication of the Government’s Industrial Strategy, both of which earmarked the South-East Midlands as a key area for future growth.