NATRAX High-Speed Test Track 101

Recently, India got a new test track, courtesy of NATRAX (National Automotive Test Tracks), at Pithampur, near Indore. Inaugurated by the Minister of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises, Prakash Javadekar, this new test track has been making the headlines for all the right reasons. 

Here are five things you should know about India’s latest high-speed test track.

Asia’s Longest

 

At 11.3km in length and 16m in width (with four lanes), this is the longest high-speed track in Asia. It’s also claimed to be the fifth-longest high-speed test track in the world. 

Pedal To The Metal  

There’s no need to worry about going too fast, as the track has been designed for neutral speeds of 250kmph and a maximum speed of up to 375kmph on the curves. Moreover, there is less banking on the oval, which is beneficial for safety.

Variety of Tests

This test track allows for a raft of tests, including braking, high-speed runs, coast down, acceleration, fuel-consumption evaluation, mileage accumulation, high-speed handling, and stability.

Benefits For Indian Auto Industry 

This new test track could be a major boon for carmakers in India, especially premium luxury carmakers. That’s because a lot of high-speed testing is usually carried out on tracks abroad. Now, with this track at Pithampur, a significant chunk of the testing can be conducted within the country, thereby reducing costs and other overheads. 

Other Activities

Aside from testing premium luxury models, the test track can also be used to test commercial vehicles, two wheelers, three wheelers, and cars of all types. What’s more, the track can also play host to product launches, dealer events,as well as races. 

This new high-speed track adds to the 14 other types of testing tracks offered by NATRAX. Also, the latest facility has already started generating a lot of interest among the likes of Volkswagen, FCA, Renault, Peugeot, and Lamborghini.