Southern Hemisphere Proving Grounds (SHPG) is an international automotive proving facility based in New Zealand's Cardrona area. It is the only one of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere, with its second operation undergoing development in southern Patagonia, Argentina.[1] It covers 400ha of private land and usually operates during southern winter months. Global car manufacturers seek to test new models during the Northern Hemisphere summer. SHPG was established in the early 1990s, after Japanese motor companies Toyota and Sumitomo began inquiring for a suitable site for testing new engines and tyres in the southern snow.[2] The facility operates under strict discretion for other clients and employs efforts to keep out of the public eye.
 Logo | |
| Company type | Privately held company |
|---|---|
| Industry | Automotive proof testing |
| Founded | 1990 |
| Headquarters | Wānaka, New Zealand |
| Parent | Gould Holdings Ltd |
SHPG also borders the Snow Farm, a cross-country ski resort. In 2013, SHPG bought neighbouring snowsports terrain park Snow Park NZ, which had for several years been financially struggling, and developed it into its after market ice driving event centre.[3]
References
edit- ^ "Southern Hemisphere Proving Ground : World leading winter testing facility". www.shpg.co.nz. Retrieved 2020-05-03.
- ^ Rae, Sally (2015-12-12). "SHPG best in the business". Otago Daily Times Online News. Retrieved 2020-05-04.
- ^ "Snow Park sold to vehicle-testing neighbour". Otago Daily Times Online News. 2013-06-06. Retrieved 2020-05-04.