Energy & Automotive Research Laboratories Bring a Vision to Life

Vision, determination, and teamwork. More than bricks and mortar, these were the key elements in creating the new Energy & Automotive Research Laboratories, dedicated in August. When you look at the glistering structure, which is being filled with the most up-to-date equipment and testing facilities, it is easy to overlook what it took to make the facility a reality. Like most visions, implementing the plans took years of hard work.

You can read the entire article on page 26 of our Currents Magazine. (PDF)

Fast Facts About This World-Class Facility

• $10 million, 29,000-square-foot research complex
• Original concept was created 10 years ago; construction started in
November 2005; dedication was August 24, 2007.
• Laboratories feature powertrain lab and two engine test cells, one of which can accommodate a large SUV or small military vehicle.
• There will also be a cold room to test engine starting and operation in temperatures as low as –40°C.
• A giant hot press is key to ongoing research on alternative energy sources, especially in thermoelectric projects. It is just one of many state-of-the-art pieces of equipment in the facility.
• It is located at Service Rd. and Bogue St., adjacent to the existing Engineering Research Complex, just south of the MSU Clinical Center.

Generous Support Made Facility Possible

• The Richard H. Brown Foundation
• Hallenbeck Construction Co., Inc.
• Consumers Energy Foundation
• Roy H. and Dawn I. Link
• Ford Motor Company Fund
• James B. McKeon
• General Motors Corporation
• John D. and Dortha J. Withrow