Handling the surge

The pressure facing automakers and suppliers to meet ever-more-stringent emissions regulations has fueled a boom in business for emissions testing providers.

With new emissions legislation looming, testing laboratories in recent months have almost unanimously reported their emissions cells to be near-capacity and in turn are being forced to expand, increase their workforce, and offer additional test equipment to meet the growing demand.

One such provider, FEV Engine Technology in Auburn Hills, MI, in February announced plans for a $4.3 million expansion, freeing up space for additional test cells to meet customer demand. The first phase of the expansion, scheduled to be completed by August 2007, will add 50,000 ft² (4645 m²) of floor space, and additional phases will bring the expansion to 130,000 ft² (12,080 m²).