"Flanders’ DRIVE is the innovation platform and competence center for the vehicle industry in Flanders. Founded by a number of suppliers including Bekaert, Bosal, LMS and Tenneco, and with the full support of Agoria Flanders, the organization was formed in 2001 and is supported by the Flemish Government and the European Union. Flanders’ DRIVE is located in Lommel, near to the European Proving Ground of a famous car manufacturer.

The mission of Flanders’ DRIVE is to safeguard the competitiveness of the vehicle industry in Flanders through focusing on innovation of products and processes.

To achieve this, Flanders’ DRIVE offers dedicated technological support through its network of more than 150 members, as well as encouraging research and development within and between companies. In addition to setting up innovation projects, Flanders’ DRIVE also organizes courses and workshops as part of this innovation stimulation.

Flanders’ DRIVE also offers high tech infrastructure and know-how for the development, engineering and testing of vehicle components, systems and even complete vehicles. Specialized hardware and software for integrated mechanical design and vehicle engineering, as well as dedicated test and measuring equipment is available. The cream of the bunch is a four-wheel, full vehicle shaker with six actuators for cars and vans up to 5,500 kg. Tests can be performed in a climate chamber with temperature ranges from -40 to +70°C and controlled humidity, with the possibility of sunlight simulation."