Smithers invests in new vehicle testing technology

SUZHOU, China—Smithers is working to make on-vehicle tire testing a safer, more reliable process. The Akron-based testing and consulting company has launched its new simulated on-vehicle acceleration testing (SOVAT) machine at its Suzhou laboratory.

Henry He, general manager of materials science and engineering division Asia Pacific, said the new machine drastically cut time for the tire testing processes.

"On-vehicle tire testing has always been a time consuming, expensive process," He said. "We're excited to see how this innovation can improve our clients' testing results and development timeframes. It just reinforces our desire to provide accurate data, on-time with client-centric collaboration."

The SOVAT machine gives customers a reliable, repeatable option for indoor tire testing, and is "the result of working with vehicle and tire manufacturers to understand their tire testing pain points," the company said in a statement.

The machine drum comes equipped with a rough surface that can mimic the tough road conditions and hazards tires may face. It also conducts accelerated wear tests as well as high-torque acceleration and deceleration tests, the company added.

Derek Read, vice president of Asia Pacific and global development for Smithers' materials science and engineering division, said Smithers' investmengs in the region have "always been on the forefront of new trends and technologies." Read is looking forward to the opportunities that the new machine provides Smithers, he said.

"We believe that through this investment, Smithers will further provide unique services and solutions to the automotive industry," Read said. "At the same time, we look forward to working hand in hand with industry experts to promote the innovation and development of tire technology."