Transportation Research Center breaks ground on new Advanced Impact Laboratory
Transportation Research Center Inc. (TRC), North America's leading automotive research organization, has taken a significant step forward in enhancing highway safety and passenger protection. The center recently broke ground on a new 66,000-square-foot Impact Laboratory at its East Liberty campus, marking a new era in automotive testing and development.
Key Highlights
The new facility is made possible by a $24 million economic development grant from the State of Ohio.
The lab will feature state-of-the-art technology, including robotic cameras and advanced sensors for high-impact collision testing.
This investment comes as TRC celebrates its 50th anniversary.
A Boost for Ohio's Automotive Innovation
Ohio Lt. Governor Jon Husted, who attended the groundbreaking ceremony, emphasized the project's significance: "This new and expanded Impact Lab will have a positive impact on the region and entire state, further enhancing the work happening at the site to develop highway safety technologies."
The investment reinforces Ohio's position at the forefront of transportation manufacturing, innovation, and research – a legacy that has spanned over a century.
TRC's Commitment to Innovation
Brett Roubinek, TRC's President and CEO, expressed gratitude for the state's support and highlighted the center's role in automotive innovation: "TRC, with its best-in-class facilities and expertise, has been the go-to problem solver for the world's leading automotive innovators. That reputation will surely be enhanced by our new Impact Lab and the work we will achieve here."
TRC's Impressive Track Record
Over its 50-year history, TRC has:
Attracted more than 1,000 clients from world-leading industries to Ohio
Partnered with government, industry, research, and education sectors to drive innovation
Played key roles in developing crucial automotive technologies, including:
Airbags
Anti-lock brakes
Lane assist
Adaptive cruise control
Recently developed pioneering testing facilities for autonomous driving technologies
The Future of Automotive Testing
The new Impact Laboratory will join TRC's impressive array of research facilities, which include:
Closed-road courses
Rural lanes
A 7.5-mile high-speed oval test track
A 50-acre vehicle dynamics area
The "SmartCenter" - a 540-acre specialized testing complex for autonomous and connected vehicles
As the automotive industry continues to evolve, TRC's expanded capabilities will ensure that Ohio remains at the cutting edge of transportation technology development and testing. This investment not only enhances TRC's research capabilities but also strengthens Ohio's position as a leader in automotive innovation for years to come.