Tobacco Settlement to Help Fund Auto Research Center

November 7th, 2005

The Golden Leaf Foundation, a group that receives half of North Carolina’s tobacco-settlement money, has committed $1 million to the Advanced Vehicle Research North Carolin (AVRNC). AVRNC is an independent automotive proving ground in Northampton county in eastern North Carolina. The North Carolina General Assembly approved $7.5 million in start-up funding for AVRNC in August of 2005.

As a non-profit, independent testing facility, AVRNC will provide resources at a reasonable cost to users in the general automotive, motorsports, and alternative fuel development sectors. Located on 630 acres, AVRNC will initially 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.

AVRNC 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, AVRNC 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. The project county will require 75 to 100 engineers for the initial phase.

For more information, visit the AVRNC website.

Entry Filed under: Test Labs