Bryden Wood have blended architecture, structural, mechanical and electrical engineering to complete the extension and optimization of a facility that advances automotive testing in the UK.

In June 2018 we completed extension work on a building in Northampton for global automotive engineering company MAHLE Powertrain. The addition of the brand new testing facility signals the area’s emerging automotive capability and has given a new identity to the existing Mahle Flagship UK office.

Previous facilities have tested temperature variation, but this is the first in the UK to test altitude. 

The facility is able to simulate the pressure and climatic conditions experienced at 5000m of altitude, and temperatures ranging from -40°C to +60°C. The test area includes a testing chamber, control room, analyser room and plant space.

The front of the building, facing St James’ Mill Road, features a light-filled reception, breakout space and meeting rooms. All interiors have a refined industrial aesthetic, in keeping with the building’s purpose and company identity.

The main facade is alucobond cladding which reflects back the industrial location. Fins on the facade conceal vents and pipework to give a minimal, high-spec finish.

“In an area steeped in industrial history, we have created a new, highly technical building which both exemplifies MAHLE Powertrain’s aesthetic and moves their business into new a space,” says Ian Pegrum, board director at Bryden Wood. “The breadth of our expertise made us uniquely placed to deliver this project in its entirety.”

Bryden Wood is responsible for the architecture, civil and structural engineering, M&E engineering and coordination with MAHLE Powertrain’s specialist equipment providers.

The facility has a gross internal area of over 1300m2.