TRC's expanded cold weather capabilities now include the 470-acre AET complex, now known as TRC Minnesota, where we offer an exceptional array of ice- and snow-covered surfaces and sub-zero cold chambers to test vehicle performance under the most severe conditions. From December through March our more than 20 courses are kept groomed to allow for 24/7 testing capability. Our team of experts with more than 30 years of experience are available to support all of your cold weather testing needs!

Vehicle Performance Evaluation:

• Engine and Battery Performance: Cold temperatures affect engine starts, battery capacity, and charging systems. Cold weather testing ensures vehicles can start reliably in sub-zero conditions and that electric vehicle batteries maintain performance.
• Transmission and Fluids: The performance of transmission systems and the behavior of various automotive fluids (such as oil, coolant, and brake fluid) are evaluated under freezing conditions to ensure proper lubrication and functionality.

Climate Control Systems:

• Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are tested to ensure they can maintain comfortable cabin temperatures and rapidly defrost windows in extreme cold.

Durability Testing:

• Materials such as rubber seals, plastics, and metal parts are subjected to freezing temperatures to test for brittleness, cracking, and other failure points that could compromise a vehicle’s integrity.

Traction and Handling:

• Cold weather testing also focuses on how a vehicle handles icy or snow-covered surfaces. Tire performance, traction-control systems, stability control, and anti-lock braking systems (ABS) are all evaluated to ensure safe driving performance in winter conditions.

Corrosion and Environmental Resistance:

• Snow, ice, and road salts can accelerate corrosion, so cold weather testing includes exposure to these elements to assess long-term durability of the vehicle's undercarriage and body.

• Vehicles, including body and undercarriage components, are subjected to snowy and icy conditions to ensure they remain functional in harsh environments, especially when visibility and grip are compromised.

Cold Start Testing:

• Verifying that the engine and all systems start reliably after prolonged exposure to cold temperatures is a major component of cold weather testing. For electric vehicles (EVs), this also includes testing the ability of batteries to perform in cold weather and the efficiency of charging systems.