Ricardo Inc., the North American operating arm of UK-based Ricardo plc and specialists in advanced propulsion, software and thermal management, recently signed an agreement to partner with Iowa-based Excel Engineering, which includes the sale of Ricardo’s Michigan engine testing and prototype facility. The agreement allows Ricardo, with offices in Detroit, Chicago, Silicon Valley and San Diego, to align with the pure-play engine testing and emissions company to offer expanded engine and vehicle testing capabilities in Metro Detroit and, in turn, accelerate its direct North American research and development activities throughout the transportation sector.

For Excel, the Diagonal, Iowa, company acquires a 30,000 sq. ft. test facility in Van Buren Township, Michigan, and retains roughly 30 of its employees. The facility provides Excel with capabilities in light-duty and heavy-duty engine testing and capacity to test alternative fuels as well as advanced battery and hybrid drive systems. Through the partnership, Excel will serve as the preferred testing source for Ricardo internal developments in the U.S. and will handle current and future testing for Ricardo clientele.

“We are restructuring our business to increase focus and investment in future technologies,” said Marques McCammon, appointed president of Ricardo, Inc., in October 2019. “One of our initial steps has been developing a leadership team to help clients in the U.S., Mexico and Canada close the gap from conventional transportation to a cleaner, connected mobility future. The Excel partnership enhances that objective by strengthening our testing capabilities and maintaining continuity with customers. Their pure-play approach to testing will provide scale and focus that extends our capabilities and sustains cost competitiveness.”   

Ricardo, Inc., blends its heritage in traditional propulsion with software know-how to resolve challenges in the hybrid, electric and autonomous world. Excel, founded in 2002, tests engines for exhaust emissions compliance, long- and short-term durability and overall performance. 

“At Excel we’re proud to have an undiluted, pure-play focus as a highly qualified and certified provider of testing services,” said Doug Sobotka, president of Excel Engineering.  “The agreement announced today will enable Excel to gain a significant presence in the Detroit Metro area to complement our established facilities in the Midwest. As a Ricardo, Inc. preferred partner for test services, we also look forward to supporting the company with high quality testing services to meet its in-house needs as well as the requirements of projects with its world-class client base.”