The EDAG Group has launched its Zero Prototype Lab in Wolfsburg, Germany—a cutting-edge vehicle dynamics simulation center that enables global automakers and developers to test vehicles virtually, streamlining design, reducing costs, and accelerating time to market.
EDAG Launches Europe’s Most Advanced Vehicle Dynamics Simulation Center
Wolfsburg, Germany – June 2024 — The EDAG Group, a global leader in independent automotive engineering services, has officially opened its Zero Prototype Lab, a high-tech simulation center aimed at revolutionizing how vehicles are developed and tested. Located in Wolfsburg, the facility allows manufacturers, suppliers, and motorsport teams to conduct comprehensive virtual testing without building physical prototypes.
This marks a major step forward in automotive R&D, combining precision, sustainability, and speed—all under one roof.
“With the opening of the Zero Prototype Lab, we are opening a completely new chapter in vehicle development,” said Harald Keller, EDAG Group’s CEO as of July 1, 2024. “This technology helps our partners restructure development processes to become more efficient and environmentally conscious.”
Inside the Zero Prototype Lab
World-Class Simulation Technology
At the core of the Zero Prototype Lab are three state-of-the-art simulation platforms. These include:
- DiM500 Full Spectrum Simulator by VI-grade — the largest cable-driven simulator in the world, capable of 1:1 motion cueing for lifelike vehicle dynamics feedback.
- COMPACT Full Spectrum Simulator, offering high-speed scenario testing.
- AutoHawk Hardware-in-the-Loop Platform, which integrates physical and virtual systems for real-time testing.
These systems simulate everything from basic handling to advanced ADAS and HMI functions, making the center one of the most comprehensive simulation facilities in Europe.
Applications for OEMs and Tier 1 Suppliers
Vehicle manufacturers can now evaluate critical functions such as braking, steering, and autonomous driving behaviors in controlled, repeatable conditions—regardless of weather or season. According to a 2023 McKinsey report, digital simulation can reduce vehicle development costs by up to 30% and shorten time-to-market by nearly 25%.
“The integration of hardware-in-the-loop testing with full-motion simulation changes the game,” explained Jork Rother, Senior VP of Vehicle Integration at EDAG. “It allows our clients to identify issues earlier and optimize vehicle performance without costly physical trials.”
High-Performance Support for Motorsport Engineering
Beyond mass production, the lab also opens new possibilities for motorsport teams. With complete access to digitally rendered racetracks and weather scenarios, teams can trial various setups and driver strategies long before the first lap is run.
Simulating Every Variable
From tyre selection to wind resistance and track layout, the Zero Prototype Lab lets race teams iterate setups repeatedly under identical conditions.
“Racing success increasingly relies on predictive engineering,” said a team engineer from a DTM racing affiliate. “Being able to simulate every variable with precision is a competitive advantage we didn’t have a few years ago.”
Historically, motorsport teams have relied on track days and limited software models for testing. EDAG’s lab introduces a new paradigm, where track-specific tuning and driver training happen virtually but with real-world accuracy.
A Sustainability-Driven Innovation
Reducing CO2 and Material Waste
The shift from physical prototypes to virtual testing has significant environmental benefits. EDAG estimates that this transition can cut material usage by up to 40% and reduce CO₂ emissions across development cycles.
This aligns with the broader trend of sustainable mobility. In the past decade, automotive R&D has seen a steady increase in simulation-based design, with virtual testing methods growing by 60% since 2015, according to data from the European Automotive Technology Council.
Conclusion
EDAG’s new Zero Prototype Lab represents a bold step in the future of automotive development. With cutting-edge simulation tools, global accessibility, and real-world benefits for both traditional and performance vehicle design, it sets a new standard for how vehicles can be brought from concept to road.
As automakers face mounting pressure to innovate faster and more sustainably, the Zero Prototype Lab may well be the blueprint for future R&D across the industry.
What’s your take on this update? Could simulation centers like this reshape automotive development? Share your thoughts below!