Tara Murray
The world’s most advanced research centre for next generation vehicles will be built at Deakin Univeristy’s Waurn Ponds campus, the state government has announced.
The university, along with support from the state government, will create a $13 million Next Generation Simulator project which will allow students, researchers and industry to do cost-effective prototype testing, engineering and commercial product design of driver and driverless cars.
Students will receive training in using motion technology platforms and research on driver- based and driverless vehicles.
The facility will also house the European-built S3 Motion Simulator Platform for expert drivers to test products in a virtual environment.
Partnerships with Ford Australia and Ansible Motion will also make sure locally-made vehicle products are commercially viable and internationally competitive as well.
Construction is expected to begin in November and be completed early next year.
Deakin University vice-chancellor Iain Martin said the funding would be a big boost for the university.
“The government’s investment will help Deakin provide compelling virtual worlds where students and engineers can develop and test cost-effective products with real-world application,” Professor Martin said.
“As a bespoke training platform, the Next Generation Motion Simulator Platform will enhance Australia’s sovereign capability in mobility technologies and create new jobs for regional Victoria.”
The state government has contributed $5 million to the project.
Higher Education Minister Gayle Tierney said the simulator would enhance existing skills and knowledge in vehicle manufacturing.
“This is a great example of how local universities are working with government and industry to create great opportunities for Victorians as well as contributing to our economy,” she said.
