The Southwest Research Institute was awarded a five-year $20.16 million contract by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to provide testing and analytical services related to emissions and fuel consumption.

SwRI will be tasked with developing test procedures and equipment for regulated and unregulated emissions in light- and heavy-duty vehicles and components. It will also develop for marine, railway, aircraft, small engine and other non-highway propulsion systems.

“The scope of this contract is quite broad,” said Patrick Merritt, principal scientist on the project. “It encompasses 25 areas - from fuels and lubricants to engine and emissions characterizations as well as economic studies, general rule-making support, and coordinating peer review meetings.”

The contract also calls for evaluating vehicles to ensure compliance with current emissions and other regulatory requirements. The SwRI will also safety test powertrains, batteries, and emission control systems. The contract was given through the EPA’s Office of Transportation and Air Quality Assessment and Standards division.

SwRI was founded in 1947 and has been engaged in the automotive industry conducting contract work for federal environmental projects. Merritt believes the EPA chose SwRI for the institute’s ability to respond quickly on short notice.

“Our long history and extensive expertise in all of these areas means we can provide the support requested in a very timely manner,” said Merritt. “Our diverse expertise enables us to perform these science engineering and support functions here rather than assembling a team from different laboratories.”