- The Steering System Durability Test Lab was built in 2010 to accommodate the testing of newer steering technologies – Electric Steering Systems and Electric Hydraulic Assisted Steering Systems.
- The lab consists of two test stations that were designed at the Automotive Research and Development Centre (ARDC). They simulate real driving conditions for customers and predict how FCA vehicles will perform relative to durability, functional requirements, and noise.
- The entire steering system is tested as a single unit, from steering column down to the front chassis system and wheels.
- This testing provides a complete assessment of how the driver would experience vehicle steering characteristics during rough road driving events in real world situations.
- Testing is performed in a controlled test environment in advance of actual prototype vehicle builds allowing for any issues to be corrected prior to vehicle production launch.