Fortescue Acquires UK Automotive Test Lab

Australian mining giant Fortescue has recently made a significant announcement regarding its expansion plans in the field of electrification. The company has successfully acquired a test, research, and engineering facility located in Banbury, Oxfordshire. This strategic move is expected to bolster Fortescue's prototype manufacturing and testing capabilities, allowing for greater in-house management and control over product testing processes.

The newly acquired R&D lab, previously owned by electric truck developer Arrival, spans an impressive 2339 square meters. It features multiple test cells, a workshop, a battery prototype and development area, as well as various test control centers and an EMC test chamber. Situated in close proximity to Fortescue's existing battery manufacturing facility in Banbury, the site is currently undergoing recruitment drives to bring in skilled engineers. Additionally, a substantial power supply of 2.8 MVA has been installed to support future growth initiatives.

Mark Hutchinson, CEO of Fortescue Energy, expressed his enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating, "This is a significant step forward for the company and demonstrates our commitment to building our electrification capability within the UK." Fortescue's subsidiary, Williams Advanced Engineering (WAE), is set to play a key role in leveraging the newly acquired test lab to drive innovation and excellence in battery technology.

As part of its investment in the Banbury facility, Fortescue has unveiled plans to open a state-of-the-art center dedicated to the development of next-generation Formula H batteries. This $23 million project aims to provide accelerated and enhanced support for testing requirements, all managed in-house. The company is also gearing up for further investments in test equipment and services in the short and mid-term, signaling its long-term commitment to advancing electrification technologies.

The Banbury test lab boasts cutting-edge facilities such as the 3E Laboratory and Spin Rig for assessing the functional and durability performance of electrical drive units and gearboxes. Moreover, the E-Machine Laboratory is designed to evaluate the performance of electric machines and inverters, ensuring optimal functionality and efficiency. With specialized areas like the Steering Laboratory and Battery Laboratory, Fortescue is equipped to conduct comprehensive testing on steering components and battery systems to guarantee safety and longevity in real-world applications.