Welcome to PERDC
The Powertrain Engineering Research & Development Centre (PERDC) is a result oriented organization capable of providing services ranging from the definition of the problem to the actual design, testing, verification, and finally the implementation of solutions or measures. The PERDC consists of a diversity of professionals with strong background skills in the fields of internal combustion engines, transmissions, NVH (noise, vibration and harshness), powertrain calibration, automotive test systems, biofuels and lubricants, lightweight materials (including biomaterials), diagnostic /prognosis systems, and battery and hybrid technology. The PERDC is currently the hub for engineering, research and development that involves Canadian universities and Canadian automotive parts and equipment suppliers.
The PERDC includes 16 research and development test cells, a prototype machine shop, and PHEV, HEV and BEV development testing areas which occupy 200,000 sq ft. Our capabilities encompass the following:
- Developing and optimizing automotive test systems for cost, performance and full compatibility (including the development of test methodology and cognitive systems)
- Developing calibrations for internal combustion engines, including universal controllers
- Research and development in alternate fuels (CNG, LPG, hydrogen, biofuels), lubricants and exhaust fluids (including the use of nanotechnology)
- Development in the areas of lightweight materials (including surface treatment) with the focus on aluminum, magnesium and biomaterials (including nano and hybrid)
- Research, development and testing of batteries (at the pack and cell levels), electric motors, supercapacitors , stop/start systems, and HEV, PHEV, BEV systems
- Engineering, research and development in nanosensors and actuators
- Engineering, research, development and testing of high performance and racing engines
- Non-destructive monitoring of manufacturing and assembly processes
- Development in advanced gasoline and diesel engines focusing on fuel economy, performance and cost-saving opportunities (in the areas of direct injection, turbocharging, supercharging, friction reduction, and ignition systems)
The PERDC also performs collaborative research with Canadian universities and automotive suppliers in green and sustainable technologies and production processes, which could facilitate the development of a strategic cluster of innovation activities and expertise in Canada and globally.
The PERDC is the hub for production and design validation of engines manufactured in North America, and an overflow for the Ford worldwide facilities. It also establishes a close link within Ford between manufacturing operations and the Research and Innovation Centre that can help bridge the gap between laboratory research and the successful commercialization and integration of promising new technologies into the product development cycle.
