Finland increases investment in electric vehicle research

The Technical Research Centre of Finland (VTT) is increasing its investment in the development of electric vehicles and machinery, battery systems and components. In addition to the expansion of the vehicle laboratory in Otaniemi, a new battery laboratory was opened in September to support the research and development of electric commercial vehicles. The laboratories will provide an opportunity to integrate the study of electric vehicles and their power generating components, such as electric motors, elect
November 16, 2012 Read time: 2 mins
The Technical Research Centre of Finland (814 VTT) is increasing its investment in the development of electric vehicles and machinery, battery systems and components.

In addition to the expansion of the vehicle laboratory in Otaniemi, a new battery laboratory was opened in September to support the research and development of electric commercial vehicles. The laboratories will provide an opportunity to integrate the study of electric vehicles and their power generating components, such as electric motors, electronics and batteries, and should open up the design of new vehicles.

The centre’s expanded research space is also suited to testing and developing heavy vehicles. Finnish industry sees significant potential in this sector.

“The electrification of vehicles and machinery will play an increasingly visible role in the VTT’s research projects, combining expertise related to materials technology, electrotechnology, electric machines and vehicles,” says research professor Nils-Olof Nylund. “Our approach is based on the needs of Finnish industry. In other words, we will focus on projects with actual business potential.”

Other participants in this research include not only the VTT, but Aalto University, Tekes, the Ministry of Transport and Communications, Lappeenranta University of Technology, Veolia Transport, Normet , Rocla, Fortum, Kabus, Vacon, European Batteries, Helsinki Region Transport, the City of Espoo and the University of Applied Sciences.

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