Transportation Research Center Inc. (TRC Inc.), has expanded its robust array of services by acquiring Automotive Enviro Testing (AET) in Baudette, Minnesota. The 470-acre AET complex, now known as TRC Minnesota, a renowned cold weather proving ground, offering a variety of ice- and snow-covered surfaces and sub-zero cold chambers to test vehicle performance under the harshest conditions.
TRC Minnesota joins TRC’s other facilities, including the 4,500-acre TRC Ohio, established in 1974, and the 225-acre TRC California, serving West Coast clients. Together, these facilities, along with TRC’s team of experts, offer a range of testing solutions for the mobility industry.
“As we celebrate TRC’s 50th Anniversary, AET is an exciting addition to the TRC family of companies,” said Brett Roubinek, president and CEO of Transportation Research Center Inc. “With long winter months of extreme weather conditions, this well-established northern Minnesota proving ground now offers an expanding portfolio of testing opportunities for our clients.”
TRC Minnesota’s self-contained 470-acre complex began serving the industry under AET in the 1990s. With a team of experts offering a combined 30-plus years of experience in cold weather testing, this proving ground features:
Test Tracks: Over 20 outdoor test tracks and terrains, including icy and snow-covered surfaces, to evaluate vehicle handling, braking, traction control, and other dynamic performance factors under winter conditions. These tracks are meticulously maintained to ensure consistent surfaces for repeatable testing.
Five Cold Chambers: Climate-controlled chambers for testing vehicles and components under extreme cold temperatures, simulating Arctic-like conditions. They help ensure that mobility systems perform reliably in harsh environments.
Heated Garage Bays: 15 heated bays for post-testing inspections and modifications, providing engineers a controlled environment in which to adjust systems without exposure to extreme cold.
On-site Lodging: Four secure motel-style lodges available for rent within the secure facility. All lodges have queen-size bedrooms, each with its own bathroom, TV, and refrigerator. Other amenities include high-speed internet, a kitchen, dining room, customer laundry, fitness facility with racquetball court, weight room, cardio machines, and sauna.
Conference Center: A spacious conference center available for rent for large meetings featuring a catering kitchen. Catering recommendations are available upon request.
“Cold weather testing is crucial in evaluating how vehicles and components perform under extreme, low-temperature conditions,” Roubinek said. “At TRC Minnesota, a wide array of specialized equipment and controlled environments provide real-world cold weather scenarios. The TRC family is grateful to be joining forces with the expert AET staff to build innovation in cold weather testing well into the future.”
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