Crews Braving Extreme Cold of Minus 30 Degrees Celsius During Nighttime Training Sessions
Shibetsu Proving Ground: A Winter Wonderland of Car Testing
In the heart of Hokkaido, Japan, lies the Shibetsu Proving Ground, a unique testing facility where cars are put through their paces in some of the harshest winter conditions. This expansive testing ground, constructed by NIPPO Corporation, houses a 10 km First Circuit that has been a staple since 1987.
The compacted snow at the Shibetsu Proving Ground is packed to a depth of 12 centimeters, providing a consistent base for testing. The incline sections ensure that the friction factor of the road is always constant, simulating real-world driving conditions.
A section of the area replicates snow-covered city streets with rutted roads, created by a grader and its special attachments. The width and depth of the ruts are adjusted by a team of four based on the course manager's requests, ensuring a realistic testing environment.
Teams at the Shibetsu Proving Ground work tirelessly, even through the night, to clear snow and level the roads. Led by Shibetsu Vehicle Testing Section Group Leader Tetsuo Sawada, the night crew consists of 18 people and 16 heavy vehicles. Dozens of such vehicles are employed for operations at the proving ground.
Apart from driving and testing cars during these late-night operations, additional tasks include vital backstage roles that support the overall testing process. These roles involve environmental monitoring, logistical support, and quality assurance, enabling reliable data capture under harsh conditions.
The tire testing track at the Shibetsu Proving Ground assesses all-season tires for the North American market. Shibetsu branch manager Sato, who has been working with the Shibetsu Proving Ground since the completion of the 10 km circuit in 1987, oversees course maintenance.
The key to preparing the roads at the Shibetsu Proving Ground is ensuring the same conditions, day in and day out. This consistency is crucial for accurate and reliable testing results. The late-night operations encompass various supporting tasks essential for testing accuracy and quality assurance in severe cold-temperature environments, forming a critical backstage role beyond just driving and vehicle testing.
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