Funding Authorized by NC Legislature for Advanced Vehicle Research Center

August 19th, 2005

A combination of state and local investment has been secured to build the Advanced Vehicle Research Center (AVRC), an independent automotive proving ground in Eastern North Carolina. Northampton County will provide the 630-acre site as part of an economic development initiative. Start-up funding was authorized by the North Carolina General Assembly in August of 2005.

As a non-profit, independent testing facility, the Center will be designed to provide a number of resources at a reasonable cost to users in the general automotive, motorsports, and alternative fuel development sectors.

Initially, the Center will include a 3.2 mile (5 km) high speed test track, offices and garages, dynamometers and engine test cells. All facilities may be rented or leased by users of the facility.

The Center will also feature a hydrogen refueling station and test facilities for fuel cell development.

Located less than a mile from Interstate 95, just a few miles south of the Virginia/North Carolina line, the AVRC will be easily accessible for clients in the Mid-Atlantic States. With a temperate climate, the facility will be available for year-round use. During the initial planning stage, attention is focusing on maximum safety and security for users.

Stage one of the project is planned to be completed in 3Q06 with the facilities mentioned above. Future development will include a road and handling course, additional labs and education center, wind tunnel, and other facilities requested by users and members of the Center.

For more information, visit the AVRC website.

Entry Filed under: Test Labs