Following successful initial collaborations that began in 2024, Ansible Motion is expanding its partnership with IAAPS Limited. The new agreement centres on a long-term installation of an Ansible Motion’s Delta S2 DIL simulator at the IAAPS research facility at the Bristol and Bath Science Park to create a new Vehicle-in-the-Loop (VIL) development validation environment.
IAAPS is a world-class research and engineering organisation that designs, develops and tests future propulsion systems, technologies and advanced validation methods for the global automotive, aerospace and marine industries. Building on a technical cooperation agreement with Ansible Motion that began in 2024, this second phase, set to be operational from February 2026, supports the development of advanced powertrain methodologies.
By directly connecting the Delta S2 DIL simulator to one of IAAPS’ existing AVL 1800kW full four-wheel-drive powertrain dynamometers, it will create a unique Vehicle-in-the-Loop / Driver-in-the-Loop (VIL-DIL) environment that bridges the virtual and physical worlds for more accurate and sustainable vehicle development of ICE, hybrid and electric powertrains.
Ansible Motion Delta S2 dynamic DIL simulator
The Delta S2 DIL simulator was selected by IAAPS due to its ability to deliver immersive, high fidelity dynamics within a relatively compact physical footprint with minimal facilities impact – which makes it ideal for the intended powertrain research applications. The Delta S2 features a patented, six-degrees-of-freedom Stratiform motion base, immersive projection-based vision system, interchangeable cockpit, and advanced control and computational systems that integrate seamlessly with the IAAPS powertrain dynos. Ansible Motion will also provide an inclusive support and maintenance package to meet IAAPS’s advanced research needs.
IAAPS’s new state-of-the-art laboratory will integrate a Driver-in-the-Loop (DIL) simulator with a full powertrain dynamometer, enabling seamless, real-time interaction between human drivers and actual powertrain systems. This allows engineers, researchers and drivers to experience realistic vehicle dynamics while the dynamometer precisely controls and monitors powertrain inputs and outputs within a controlled lab environment.
IAAPS powertrain cell
A key benefit of this configuration is the ability to capture human-in-the-loop behaviour during active powertrain operation — without subjecting personnel or hardware to undue risk when replicating complex or hazardous driving scenarios. This capability will accelerate driveline calibration and validation across a broad spectrum of powertrain systems — including internal combustion engines (ICE), hybrid, and battery-electric platforms, even ahead of full vehicle availability. Additionally, it enables early-stage evaluation of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), autonomous driving transitions, and edge-case scenarios in a repeatable, resource-conscious, and environmentally responsible manner.
Prof Rob Oliver, IAAPS Ltd. managing director, comments:
We are delighted to announce the deepening of our collaboration with Ansible Motion, a global leader in driving simulator technology. This partnership represents a powerful alignment of capabilities, combining IAAPS’s cutting-edge propulsion system engineering and research expertise with Ansible Motion’s advanced simulation systems. This is a milestone moment for both organisations and a testament to our shared commitment to innovation.
Ansible Motion and IAAPS strategy meeting (November 2025); pictured from left to right: Anthony Lewis, Ansible Motion head of commercial; Mike Bates, IAAPS director of engineering; Dan Clark, Ansible Motion managing director; Rob Oliver, IAAPS managing director; Salman Safdar, Ansible Motion director of business development, sales and marketing; Chris Hawkins, IAAPS director of finance and operations; Chris Brace, IAAPS executive director
Ansible Motion and IAAPS are currently planning a joint launch event after the system is fully operational in February 2026.
Read the full article on the Automotive Testing Technology International website.
