Future-proofing the connected car starts now

International expert organization DEKRA is building a connected car test area in Málaga, Spain, as part of their international testing network for connected and automated driving. Through the usage of test scenarios, actual cars, emulation equipment and specific lab settings, partners can already start future-proofing now. The test area will open before the end of 2017.

DEKRA's connected car test area will become a key component of its international testing network for connected and automated driving. The hub in Málaga will focus amongst others on R&D and early production testing, while the existing testing oval at DEKRA in Klettwitz, Germany and the Lausitzring race track in Germany, recently acquired by DEKRA, will be set up for automotive systems, whole vehicle and infrastructure testing. DEKRA is also aiming to add further hubs in East Asia and the USA, while simultaneously developing test plans, innovative test tools, and fostering standardization in the industry.

"We have developed a significant number of test scenarios, some of which have already been implemented. The test scenarios verify the generation and reception of appropriate signaling messages and corresponding warnings to drivers for various technologies", says Fernando Hardasmal, Managing Director of DEKRA Testing & Certification S.A.U. "Some of the scenarios tested for vehicle-to-everything technologies, also referred to V2X, are Intersection Movement Assist, Green Light Optimal Speed Advisory, Forward Collision Warning, and Work Zone Warnings".

In addition to deploying actual V2Xdevices, DEKRA will simulate scenarios using dedicated beacons and purpose-built software. Other test activities in this test area will include interoperability, performance and usability testing; as well as cybersecurity evaluations for the connected car. Finally, DEKRA has recently obtained the ISO 17025 accreditation for car safety technology eCall and ERA/GLONASS for testing in the lab and at customer premises.

"Our goal is to meet the growing demand in testing and certification triggered by innovations that will reshape the automotive industry. By combining safety and connectivity testing, we aim to give automotive manufacturers the edge in a future where nothing on the road works alone", says Bert Zoetbrood, CEO of DEKRA's global Product Testing & Certification division.

The new test area, with a future size of well over 50,000m² is currently being constructed in the Andalusia Technology Park in Málaga. This project will also open opportunities to continue the fruitful cooperation between the University of Malaga and DEKRA, which started more than 20 years ago.