The world’s most advanced research centre for next generation vehicles will be established at Deakin University, thanks to support from the Victorian Government.
The $13 million Next Generation Simulator project at Waurn Ponds will allow students, researchers and industry to do cost-effective prototype testing, engineering and commercial product design of driver and driverless cars.
The facility will also house the European-built S3 Motion Simulator Platform for expert drivers to test products in a virtual environment – and partnerships with Ford Australia and Ansible Motion will make sure locally-made vehicle products are commercially viable and internationally competitive.
University and TAFE students will receive training in using motion technology platforms, and research on driver-based and driver-less vehicles, creating a pipeline of local workers for the advanced manufacturing industry.
The project will create 15 jobs by 2025, and four PhD positions and two internships each year.
Construction is expected to begin in November and be completed early next year, with a builder to be appointed soon.
The Government has contributed $5 million to the project in a joint effort with Deakin University and its partners – as one of many pitches from universities to the Victorian Higher Education State Investment Fund, which was developed in response to the significant impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the sector.
The unprecedented $350 million Victorian Higher Education State Investment Fund is supporting universities with capital works, research infrastructure projects and applied research focused on boosting Victoria’s productivity and economy as the state recovers from the coronavirus pandemic.
As stated by Minister for Higher Education Gayle Tierney
“The Next Generation Simulator will enhance our existing skills and knowledge in vehicle manufacturing to drive innovation and create world-first products.”
“This is a great example of how local universities are working with government and industry to create great opportunities for Victorians as well as contributing to our economy.”
As stated by Member for South Barwon Darren Cheeseman
“Geelong has always been a proud Ford town, and this exciting collaboration between Ford and Deakin will reinforce our reputation as an advanced manufacturing city of excellence.”
As stated by Deakin University Vice-Chancellor Professor Iain Martin
“The government’s investment will help Deakin provide compelling virtual worlds where students and engineers can develop and test cost-effective products with real-world application.”
“As a bespoke training platform, the Next Generation Motion Simulator Platform will enhance Australia’s sovereign capability in mobility technologies and create new jobs for regional Victoria.”
