Carmaker Ford has announced the use of two robot test drivers at its environmental test centre – known as the Weather Factory – in Cologne, Germany.
Nicknamed Shelby and Miles – in homage to Carroll Shelby and Ken Miles, key figures behind the development of the Ford GT40 that won the 24 Hours of Le Mans race in 1966 – the robots will aid the Blue Oval’s vehicle development programmes on a range of taxing climatic trials.
These include altitude tests, where human test drivers may become tired or unwell when the test needs to be replicated perfectly multiple times, and wind tunnel testing, which for human drivers requires numerous safety protocols, such as having oxygen bottles, medical equipment and a paramedic on-site.
According to Ford, each robot test driver is able to operate at temperatures ranging from -40°C to 80°C as well as at extreme altitudes – and can be set up and programmed for different driving styles.
The robot test driver’s legs extend to the accelerator, brake and clutch pedals, with one arm positioned to change gear and the other used to start and stop the engine.
Frank Seelig, supervisor, wind tunnel testing, Ford of Europe, said: “These two new drivers are fantastic additions to the team, as they can take on the challenging endurance tests at high altitudes and in hot temperatures.
“Once the robot is in the driver’s seat, we can run tests through the night without ever having to worry that the driver will need a sandwich or a bathroom break.”
