Uvalde Proving Ground Capabilities

Treadwear & Endurance Testing: Actual on-vehicle testing of tires is done to evaluate the treadwear and endurance of the tire. Many different test methods are used to determine the performance of a tire design. Vehicles are run on both the test track and public roads under various conditions.

Vehicle Construction and Automotive Component Testing: Many of the courses found at the proving grounds are suitable for testing automotive components and the overall vehicle construction, as well as vehicle handling. The facilities are also suitable to test the durability and stability of parts, chassis and other types of vehicle durability.

Special Tests

Bead Roll-Off Test: Determines the ability of the tire to remain seated on the rim during severe cornering.

Sidewall Burst Test: Evaluates the tire's ability to withstand sidewall punishment when run into a high curb at an angle.

Coastdown Test: Tests the tire's influence on vehicle fuel economy as part of the EPA mileage rating procedure.

Dynamic Plunger Test/Rapid Air Loss Test: Tests a tire's ability to withstand penetration in the crown area when a tire is driven over an object protruding from the road surface.

Traction Testing: Tests the ability of tires to stop on both wet and dry road surfaces using specially instrumented braking traction trailers.

Lateral Hydroplaning Testing: Tests the hydroplaning characteristics of tires under varying water depths and speeds.

Handling Testing: Tests the tire/vehicle interaction during severe cornering, acceleration and braking under both wet and dry conditions.

Ride Testing: Tests the tire's ride comfort and dampening characteristics over various surfaces and disturbances.

Fuel Consumption: Tests the tire's effect on the fuel consumption during actual vehicle usage.

TMPH Testing: Tests the tire's load carrying capabilities under defined loads, speeds and temperatures.