EV Advanced Powertrain Solutions for R&D Test

Project Overview

ACS was responsible for the construction of two EV powertrain system R&D test cells including plant utilities systems, test equipment, and test equipment support systems for client’s research of hybrid gasoline, natural gas, medium-sized diesel, and electric powertrains. As Construction Manager at Risk (CM-R), ACS conducted constructability reviews, provided construction estimates and schedules, and participated in design reviews.

The two-story, 3,000 square foot addition and renovation expanded research capabilities of efficient and clean engine concepts and alternative fuels for medium size engines. The test facility is capable of testing gasoline, diesel, biodiesel and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG). Support infrastructure and utilities included upgraded electrical power service, natural gas service, chilled water, heating hot water, compressed air, and systems for the delivery of multiple fuels.

This addition to the Advanced Powertrain Testing Laboratory (APTL) at Clemson University significantly expanded the center’s research capabilities and enables experimental investigations of efficient and clean engine concepts, alternative fuels, hybrid electric powertrains and EV powertrain systems. The testing laboratory provides unique flexibility for combining in-depth research and powertrain system integration. This laboratory will be used by graduate and PhD students, faculty, and commercial research partners and advances CU-ICAR’s vision of being the premier automotive research, innovation, and educational enterprise in the world.

Key Features

Construction and renovation of engine and fuels research space within an active campus setting.

• Two (2) test cells for research of hybrid gasoline, natural gas, medium-size diesel and electric powertrains
• Plant utilities systems:
  • Electrical service
  • Central chilled water
  • Clean agent fire suppression
• Test equipment:
  • Double-shaft 600KW regenerative AC-dynamometer
  • Data acquisition system
  • Fuel balance measurement
  • FTIR emissions measurement
  • E-Storage PDU-emulator
• Test equipment support systems:
  • Jacket water cooling system
  • Oil cooler
  • Isolated bed plate (21’-4” X 8’-3”)
  • Fuel farm
  • Cooling tower

ACS Services

ACS provided preconstruction services including consulting, project estimating, procurement strategies and schedule control. ACS managed construction phase services including selection and coordination of subcontractors; overseeing bidding and contracts; construction schedule management and cost control; and test equipment installation, integration and commissioning.