Vehicle Dynamic Test & Validation Engineer

Test Planning & Preparation
Develop comprehensive test plans for vehicle dynamics validation, covering aspects such as steering, suspension, braking, and overall vehicle stability.
Define test criteria and parameters in collaboration with design and engineering teams, ensuring alignment with vehicle performance targets.
Select appropriate testing methodologies, including physical testing on proving grounds, dynamometers, or simulation-based testing environments.
Coordinate the preparation of test vehicles, including instrumentation, sensor setup, and calibration for dynamic measurements.
Test Execution
Conduct on-track and on-road tests to evaluate vehicle dynamics performance, including handling, riding quality, cornering, braking, and stability.
Perform specific tests such as slalom, lane-change maneuvers, skid pad tests, braking tests, and high-speed stability tests.
Monitor and record real-time data during tests using data acquisition systems and advanced vehicle dynamics sensors.
Collaborate with test drivers to gather subjective feedback on vehicle behavior and performance.
Validate simulation models by comparing them to real-world test results, ensuring consistency between virtual models and actual vehicle behavior.
Work with cross-functional teams to develop and validate tuning strategies for vehicle dynamics, such as suspension tuning, electronic stability control (ESC) calibration, and brake force distribution.
Ensure compliance with vehicle dynamics performance standards set by regulatory bodies (e.g., ISO, NHTSA, SAE) and internal corporate requirements.
Support the refinement of vehicle dynamics control systems, such as active suspension, adaptive dampers, and traction control systems.
Data Analysis & Reporting
Analyze test data to assess vehicle dynamics parameters such as roll rate, yaw rate, pitch, lateral/longitudinal acceleration, understeer/oversteer characteristics, and suspension response.
Identify trends, anomalies, or performance deviations and work closely with the development team to propose design modifications or tuning adjustments.
Document test results, creating detailed technical reports that include data plots, graphs, and performance summaries.
Provide clear recommendations based on test findings to optimize vehicle handling, stability, and ride comfort.
Problem Solving & Troubleshooting
Identify and diagnose performance issues related to vehicle dynamics, such as instability, excessive body roll, or poor cornering behavior.
Use root cause analysis techniques (e.g., 8D, 5 Whys, FMEA) to investigate and address test failures or deviations from expected performance.
Collaborate with chassis, powertrain, and electronics teams to resolve dynamic issues and retest for validation.
Collaboration & Communication
Work closely with design, simulation, and vehicle development engineers to refine dynamic models and suggest design improvements based on test results.
Communicate test plans, procedures, and results to internal stakeholders, including R&D, product management, and manufacturing teams.
Collaborate with external partners, such as testing facilities, equipment suppliers, and regulatory bodies, to execute vehicle dynamics tests.
Participate in design reviews, technical meetings, and validation discussions, presenting findings and influencing design decisions.