Repeatable, Private, Accurate,
Efficient and Accessible.

Vehicle Aerodynamics

Developing and validating full scale vehicle aerodynamic performance including, but not limited to measures such as lift, downforce, drag and aerodynamic balance. Full scale testing under fully controlled ambient conditions ensure accurate, representative and repeatable tests.

Vehicle Performance

Evaluating vehicle performance such as speed, acceleration, braking and ride height comfort.  The tunnel is not affected by the weather so is available all year round.

Cooling Performance

Assessing thermal and cooling performance of engine bay, radiator, powertrain and brake components. Testing and validating thermal counter measures. Evaluating heat soak issues.

Noise Performance

Acoustic testing for passenger comfort and conformity to government legislation.  Examples include the evaluation of cabin noise, engine sound levels, exhaust systems or even fitment of structures and assemblies.

Coastdown Testing

One specific aerodynamic test Catesby Tunnel is perfectly set up to accommodate is a coastdown. The length of the tunnel means there is ample time to accelerate a vehicle up to typical speeds of 130-180kph before putting it into neutral and allowing speed to decay. The combination of constant environmental conditions and an incredibly smooth asphalt surface makes repeatability in the tunnel outstanding. This means tiny changes, such as placing a small camera mount to a vehicle can be easily spotted in the data.

Catesby Tunnel will obtain VCA certification of the facility for WLTP coast down in early 2023.

Aeroacoustics

Determining noise source, measuring noise levels and analysing sound propagation as a consequence of turbulent airflows.

Emission Tests

Representative vehicle emissions testing of carbon dioxide and pollutants such as carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons and oxides of nitrogen.

Dirt Deposition

Practical testing of complex vehicle contamination processes due to adverse environmental conditions.

Filming Location

For photography and filming Catesby Tunnel offers a truly unique location. 2.7km of entirely private and enclosed road, so you don’t have to worry about traffic or organising road closures.