University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute Addition

This project proposes establishing an Electric Vehicle Center (EVC) battery laboratory through the construction of an approximately 33,800 gross-square-foot addition to the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute (UMTRI). The new space will support research and hands-on experience in next-generation battery technologies. The lab will also include dedicated space for welding battery cells into modules, 500 channels of computer-controlled cell cycling, lab user offices, a conference room and a multi-use, reconfigurable lobby. The facility is designed with tours in mind, with windows into the dry room and research areas. The addition will also feature an enclosed penthouse housing dehumidifiers essential to battery laboratory operations. Additionally, there will be minor renovations within UMTRI and a new on-site fire hydrant will improve safety coverage. The scope of this project includes the architectural, electrical, and mechanical work necessary to accomplish these improvements. We estimate additional parking spaces will be needed for this project. These parking needs will be accommodated by pedestrian access to lot NC85.