test track
Vehicle evaluation loop
A test track is a controlled course where vehicles are evaluated for performance, safety, or durability.
Automakers use test tracks to push prototypes to their limits before production.
The term extends to any facility for testing equipment under controlled conditions: The company built a test track for its new train cars.
Location for trials
- NürburgringGerman racing circuit
- wind tunnelControlled airstream apparatus
- dynamometerForce and power measurer
- restricted accessEntry limited to authorized individuals
Closed electrical pathway
- lapOne complete circuit
- straightawayWithout pause or hesitation
- chicaneDeliberate tight turns
- hairpinU-shaped fastener for tresses
banked curve · pit lane · skid pad · braking zone · oval · proving ground · gradient · rumble strip
Automatic crash cushioning activation
- crumple zoneDesigned-to-deform safety structure
- pedestrian safetyProtection for those walking
- side impactCollision from the flank
- frontal impactCollision from ahead
rear impact · high-speed camera · deceleration · structural integrity · emergency braking · accident reconstruction · injury assessment · safety certification
proving ground
Location for trials
- NürburgringGerman racing circuit
- wind tunnelControlled airstream apparatus
- dynamometerForce and power measurer
circuit
Closed electrical pathway
- lapOne complete circuit
- straightawayWithout pause or hesitation
- chicaneDeliberate tight turns
hairpin · banked curve · pit lane · skid pad · braking zone · oval · proving ground · gradient · rumble strip · crash barrier
airbag deployment
Automatic crash cushioning activation
- crumple zoneDesigned-to-deform safety structure
- pedestrian safetyProtection for those walking
- side impactCollision from the flank
frontal impact · rear impact · high-speed camera · deceleration · structural integrity · emergency braking · accident reconstruction · injury assessment · safety certification
- automakingassembly line, car factory, production line, final assembly, paint shop
- car testssafety inspection, engine check, tire check, alignment check, seatbelt check
- Test Rangesproving ground, wind tunnel, quality control lab, research station, pilot plant
- vehicle developmentprototyping, wind tunnel, concept car, clay model, design sketch
- Testing Sitesproving ground, testbed, firing range, artillery range, bombing range
- rail yardsswitchyard, marshalling yards, receiving yard, yard crew, yardmaster
test trackpublic road
Common travel route
open road · city street · residential street · freeway · motorway
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