Photo of helmet in thermoacoustic wind tunnel

Climatic Drive Cell

The climatic drive cell of Stellantis in Orbassano is a vertical air recirculation cell, with a vehicle-facing ventilator. It is equipped with a system for simulating temperature/humidity/solar irradiation, wind generation, and a 4WD dynamometric roller bench."

Photo of the thermoacoustic wind tunnel

More information

It became operational in 2020. Is designed to cover a wide range of climati conditions with rapid variations (gradient 20°C/h). With its particular structure and safety systems, it is the only facility in Stellantis capable of safely testing vehicles powered by methane or LPG under extreme operating conditions. Additionally, the walls and ceiling are covered with soundproof panels, making it suitable for acoustic tests with the vehicle running and always in extreme climatic conditions."

-40/+60 °C

Temperature Range

170 km/h

Wind speed

1800/4500 mm

Wheelbase Range

Main activities

  • Validation of engine cooling systems
  • Thermal validation of engine components, underbody, and cabin
  • Validation of cabin heating/cooling systems and related automatic control
  • Validation of vehicle system energy balance on various driving profiles
  • Validation of fuel supply systems and infiltration of gasoline vapors into the cabin
  • Validation of engine systems in extreme temperature conditions (fuel supply system, cold starts, engine crankcase oil ventilation)
  • Specific customized tests upon customer request

Detail of mannequin with helmet

Technical sheet

  • Test Section Width x Height x Length = 6,0m x 3,5m x 8,0m​
  • Temperature Range: -40 ÷ +60 °C​
  • Humidity Range: 20 ÷ 95 %​ (only for T>5°C)
  • Solar simulation: 700÷1200 W/m^2 (18 full solar spectrum lamps)
  • Wind speed: 170 km/h​
  • Nozzle Area: 2 m^2​
  • Dynomometric roller bench: 4WD
  • Dyno Speed: 250 km/h
  • Dyno power: 400 kW /axle
  • Wheelbase Range: 1800 ÷ 4500 mm​
  • Track Range: 1000 ÷ 2400 mm
  • Max Mass: 3500 kg​
  • HV charger: AC 22kW Mode 3​
  • Acoustic treatment: test section walls and ceiling​
  • Extra features: LPG / CNG vehicles

Photo of mannequin in car