IRL Contract Extended into its 12th Year

Xtrac is very pleased to confirm that the IRL recently extended its supply contract to provide the gearbox for the Indy Racing League to include the 2011 season.

Xtrac were originally awarded the contract for the 2000 – 2002 season and then successfully won the next tender for the years 2003 – 2005 with its successful ‘295’ series gearbox which are now built at Xtrac’s Indianapolis premises.  This has proved so cost effective and popular with the teams that the contract has been extended 5 times.  In 2008 Xtrac upgraded the transmission with the fitment of the excellent MegaLine Assisted Gearshift System that is so liked by the drivers and has lead to even greater cost reductions in spares usage.

Xtrac’s Managing Director says ‘We are so pleased to extend our relationship with the IRL.  It has been a pleasure to work with Brian Barnhart, Les McTaggart and all their colleagues at the Indy Racing League.  I know that everyone at Xtrac in the UK and our recently expanded Xtrac USA facility is proud to be associated with the formula’.

During 2009 Xtrac carried out an intensive research campaign with most of the teams to ascertain their future requirements and wishes, and that can be utilized in any future transmission tenders.

Xtrac breaks the mould by supplying Hispania, Lotus and Virgin F1 teams with complete gearbox – significantly reducing transmission system costs

Xtrac, the transmission technology specialist and long-established supplier of gearbox components to almost every Formula 1 team on the grid, is supplying the Hispania Racing F1 Team and Lotus F1 Racing with a newly designed gearbox, designated as project 1044, developed for the 2010 season.

Including the aluminium casing, it’s Xtrac’s first total transmission system supplied into F1 since 1996, when the company previously supplied complete gearboxes and not just the vital internal components it has continued to supply ever since, which have enabled teams to build their own bespoke transmissions.

New team Virgin Racing will maintain this recent tradition of specifying a unique casing, which is a major structural part of the vehicle, but will otherwise also be using the entire project 1044 internal kit supplied by Xtrac. Hispania and Lotus meanwhile will use the complete Xtrac transmission including the casing.

All three F1 teams are racing with a Cosworth engine, for which the transmission was originally conceived as part of the FIA proposals put forward in 2008 to significantly reduce costs through the option of a standard powertrain. In the context of F1, where every component is normally designed and manufactured as a bespoke item, Xtrac’s “batch-produced” gearbox with common parts offers significant cost savings, while technically remaining highly competitive. It also benefits from an extensive rig and engine dynamometer test programme.

With a contemporary longitudinal layout, commonly utilised in F1 gearboxes, the transmission could be easily adapted to other F1 engines. It positions the gear cluster forward of the differential to ensure excellent vehicle weight distribution, while meeting critical aerodynamic requirements at the rear of the vehicle. It’s also designed to be as compact as possible to help accommodate the larger fuel tank and tighter packaging requirements imposed by the 2010 regulations.

At only approximately 40kg the basic architecture balances the usual requirements for low weight, reliability and robust performance. The design philosophy behind the internal components also benefits greatly from Xtrac’s extensive experience in F1 and as a leading designer and supplier of complete transmission systems, including the casing, to other major motorsport series around the world.

Established for 25 years, Xtrac is a world leader in the design and manufacture of gearboxes, differentials and driveline components, which are used throughout motorsport and in particular within F1, IRL, Touring Cars, Rallying, Rally Raid, Grand Am and many forms of sportscar racing including a major involvement in the Le Mans 24 hour, Daytona 24 hour and Sebring 12 hour races. More recently the UK transmission specialist has been applying its skills to non motorsport applications, with rapid growth in the defence and marine sectors.

Further information download PDF, click here...

Great start to 2010 - Dakar and Monte Carlo Rally

Dakar Rally – 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th

Xtrac is pleased to report that its gearboxes and differentials were fitted to the cars that occupied the top 5 overall finishing positions in the 2010 ‘Dakar’ rally, which for the second successive year was held amongst the spectacular but grueling terrain of Argentina and Chile.

Carlos Sainz led a Volkswagen 1-2-3 in his Volkswagen Race Touareg 2 finishing first after 16 days of close competition with team mate Nasser Al Attiyah who finished second just 2’12” behind Sainz with American Mark Miller in 3rd place.  Since the 2004 Dakar, Xtrac have been the sole supplier to Volkswagen for the Touareg differentials and gearboxes.

4th and 5th positions were occupied by the X-Raid entered BMW X3 CC’s equipped with Xtrac’s front and rear differentials.  Another great result for this event which Xtrac has been involved in for over 25 years.

Monte Carlo Rally – 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 5th, 6th

The famous Monte Carlo Rally was again the inaugural round of the 2010 FIA International Rally Championship. 

M-Sport bravely chose to debut their new Super 2000 Ford Fiesta with Xtrac’s new FIA approved ‘633’ gearbox and rear differential at this event.  The car was driven by their WRC regular driver Marko Hirvonen who proceeded to lead the rally from start to finish, beating fellow countryman Juho Hanninen driving a Skoda Fabia S2000 with 3rd position occupied by Nicolas Vouilloz also driving a Skoda Fabia S2000.  Another 2 Skoda Fabia’s, also equipped with Xtrac’s ‘532’ gearbox and rear differential with our unique patented hand brake disconnect mechanism followed closely behind finishing 5th and 6th.

Other manufacturers using the 532 gearbox and rear differential include Fiat Abarth, Proton, MG and Opel.

Grand AM Road Racing extends relationship with Xtrac through 2012 Season

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Jan. 26, 2010) - Recognizing the success of its participation in the GRAND-AM Rolex Sports Car Series presented by Crown Royal Cask No. 16 both on and off the track, Xtrac has agreed to extend its relationship with GRAND-AM through the 2012 season. The sponsorship is active in both the Daytona Prototype and GT classes, which will be back in action this Saturday and Sunday as the 2010 Rolex Sports Car Series season takes the green flag with the 48th Rolex 24 At Daytona. 

The contingency structure provides rewards in every round of Rolex Sports Car Series competition, going to both the winning Xtrac-equipped Daytona Prototype and GT-class machines, as well as to the Xtrac entries that finish fourth.

"Xtrac is very pleased to be furthering our relationship with the GRAND-AM Rolex Sports Car Series, by providing the top teams with the highest quality, yet affordable transmissions and driveline components," said Andrew Heard, Vice President, Xtrac, Inc.

With the belief that competition is the engine that drives its business forward, Xtrac has a proven record of performance and reliability on racetracks across the nation and in some of the sports biggest events, including the Rolex 24 At Daytona.

"We are very pleased to extend this relationship with Xtrac, as they are a key component for so many of our teams' winning efforts," said Kevin Hindson, GRAND-AM Vice President, Marketing and Communications. "GRAND-AM is motivated to continue to grow the paddock with suppliers and partners that not only deliver on the track, but also bring the support services that our racers require to be successful. We are pleased to see that Xtrac values its involvement with the series, and we are looking forward to the future with them."

The contingency program is just one of over 20 such sponsorships in place for GRAND-AM drivers and teams to take advantage of, with the family of GRAND-AM marketing partnerships that continues to grow in both the Rolex Sports Car Series and the Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge.

About GRAND-AM    

GRAND-AM Road Racing, which operates and sanctions the Rolex Sports Car Series and the Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge, is the foremost sanctioning body of sports car racing in North America. The 12-race Rolex Series 2010 schedule and the 10-race Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge 2010 calendar deliver professional sports car racing to key markets throughout North America in addition to being televised in the U.S. and Canada on SPEED and distributed globally through ESPN International.  GRAND-AM Road Racing showcases emerging and legendary drivers from around the globe, and thoroughbred racing machines from the industry's leading constructors and the world's top automobile manufacturers. Learn more about GRAND-AM at www.GRAND-AM.com.

For more information, contact:

J.J. O'Malley, 386-310-6588, jomalley@nascar.com

Xtrac is significant participant at Cleaner Racing Conference and Autosport Exhibition

With virtually all of the world's top motorsport teams including F1 relying on Xtrac's expertise in high performance transmissions, the company will be a welcome participant at the 4th European Cleaner Racing Conference as well as displaying new and exciting driveline products at the Autosport International Exhibition, being held at the NEC in Birmingham this week.  

At the exhibition, Xtrac will participate in the Engineering Show on 14-15 January, where it will be exhibiting in Hall 9 on stand number E141.  The centrepiece of its display is the new Axis Drive by Caudwell Marine, which features a unique gear system designed and manufactured by Xtrac.  The Engineering Show is an important event for the transmission specialist, attracting significant international buyers every year.  The company, which has just celebrated its 25th anniversary, will also be supporting the industry’s annual awards ceremony by sponsoring the ‘Business of the Year’ award.  

To help start the proceedings, Xtrac technical director Adrian Moore will join a discussion panel of experts at the Cleaner Racing Conference that will bring delegates up to speed with the topical subject of low carbon and electric vehicle developments.   A pioneer for the past decade in energy efficient motorsport initiatives, Xtrac’s participation will make a significant contribution to the conference, having been increasingly selected as a technical partner for the development of more energy efficient road vehicles. 

“The UK benefits considerably from its multi-million pound motorsport industry, which exemplifies the rapid technical innovation we need to help tackle the problem of energy efficiency,” says Moore.   “Significantly, many of the technical solutions we develop for motorsport can be applied to the automotive mainstream and other transport sectors.  Indeed, our engineering skills are increasingly being sought after by the aerospace, defence and marine industries to help develop new products.”

Organised by the Motorsport Industry Association (MIA), the conference is supported by Autosport International and UK Trade & Investment (UKTI).   Immediately preceding the racing car show, the conference will help draw attention to the motorsport industry’s ability to engineer practical energy efficiency solutions.   Xtrac, for example, has been heavily involved in the design and manufacture of more than 100 prototype gearboxes for advanced hybrid and electric vehicles intended for the automotive mainstream.  To highlight this capability the company will display at the Engineering Show its latest high efficiency ‘6011’ electric vehicle transmission.   

“The space available in electric and hybrid vehicles to package all the driveline components is at an absolute premium,” says Moore.  “To help develop an optimum solution, we can utilise our years of experience of packaging high performance powertrains within the compact dimensions of a race car.  This is but one example of where our engineering expertise and experience can help.”
With increasing focus by the automotive industry on electric powertrains, Xtrac has applied many of the high precision techniques learnt in motor racing to design transmission systems suitable for electric drives, and has successfully demonstrated its rapid product design and development capability in several mainstream projects.   

Xtrac has been just as busy in the marine industry and taking pride of place on the company’s stand this year is the new and revolutionary Axis Drive by Caudwell Marine, which is being seen for the first time at an international motorsport exhibition.  The award winning marine propulsion system is a unique and innovative design that adopts a clean sheet approach and includes literally hundreds of new innovations.    The patented drive mounting method was designed to go through the transom (a transverse beam for strengthening the stern of a motorboat) and installs the engine at a 45 degree angle to the horizontal drive shaft, which has the effect of improving compactness, internal boat space and the steering axis. 

Significantly, the design includes a patented mid-section gearbox that enables the drive to yaw its steering and trim its pitch without a U-joint and without articulating the engine.  Designed and manufactured by Xtrac, the gear system for the Axis Drive helps reduce power losses and gear noise and includes a dry sump arrangement.   Its electro-hydraulic clutch provides smooth and effortless shifting, and the multiple stage transmission provides reduction ratios of 2.68 and 1.88.  It is specified for a 1,000 hour extreme duty cycle.  

The South African developed and internationally patented Axis Drive is aimed at the leisure boating market in the 16 to 40 foot range.  Although marine propulsion systems for the leisure boating market have improved over the past few decades, there have been no fundamental changes.  Caudwell Marine says the system has ‘rewritten the rule book on how to get greater efficiency to the propeller in the water and consequently enhance the total boating experience’.   Available with three gasoline and three diesel engines, the model on display is the ‘350VI’ 4.5-litre V8 petrol unit, which is rated at 350 horsepower.

Back on dry land and for engineers with responsibility for designing vehicles with robust off road performance, such as in the Defence industry, Xtrac has developed its ‘522’ super heavy duty differential.   This special axle unit is designed for both front and rear drive applications, typically for cross country or rally raid vehicles, and is of a type that is highly suitable for use in light armoured vehicles.  The oil system and universal mountings allow the differential to operate in virtually any orientation, which combined with its high quality and low cost make this product ideal for a wide variety of endurance type events.  The unit builds on the company’s distinguished record for reliability and performance in the famous Dakar rally raid event. 

Meanwhile, in its core business of developing high performance transmissions for motor sport applications, Xtrac has busy supplying gearboxes to the A1 Grand Prix ‘World Cup of Motorsport’ race series.  It has been sole supplier since the series began in 2005.  Xtrac will display the current gearbox featuring its lightweight magnesium casing and high torque and power capability.  The transmission was designed from a clean sheet of paper to suit the new chassis introduced for 2009, which is powered by a Ferrari V8 engine. 

Xtrac is also displaying its latest ‘633’ system; a complete 4WD gearbox and driveline designed to meet FIA Super 2000 regulations.   Xtrac is an approved supplier for many high performance series and this new gearbox is a development of the ‘532’ six-speed sequential transmission and rear differential designed for four-wheel drive rally cars, which typically have power outputs of 280bhp and deliver 250Nm of torque.  The new transmission reflects the FIA requirements for a reliable and durable system at low cost, which can offer excellent value for money.

The main benefits of this transmission system to the rally teams include easily removable gear clusters for ratio changes and differentials with external adjustment for the front, centre and rear.  The main benefit for the rally driver is a light and positive sequential gearbox and high performance differentials, which fulfil the FIA mandated minimum weight of 90kg for the whole transmission.  A range of homologated gear ratios is available, with the critical gearbox components being able to fulfil the recommended FIA duty cycle. 
For endurance sportscar racing, Xtrac will present its latest ‘672’ gearbox, which has been designed for LMP2 applications.  The rear mounted, transverse gearbox is a derivative of the type ‘529’ transmission, which is one of Xtrac's most successful Le Mans winning gearbox designs and has arguably become the gearbox of choice for an LMP1 or LMP2 series car.   Designed in such a way that various size clusters can be used, it also allows gear cluster changes without disassembly of the rear of the car.

The ‘516’ gearbox on display is a high performance front wheel drive transmission designed specifically for the World Touring Car Championship.  It makes use of reduced centre distance F1 derived gear ratios to minimise the size and weight of the gearbox and to minimise inertia.  The gear change system incorporates the latest polynomial barrel track design and low inertia gear change rack to improve gear change response and driver feel.  The low positioning of the gear cluster enables easy removal from the car under the chassis rail, and lowers the centre of gravity.  The gear cluster is fully exposed when removed from the gearbox allowing quick inspection, and easy access for ratio changes.

Xtrac will also display its ‘512’ Moto GP gear cluster, which takes an entirely new approach to the problem of designing a gearbox for high performance racing bikes.  Essentially, it breaks with the tradition of conventional sliding gears, by scaling down a racing car design, which is more compact and helps to optimise the packaging.  It also increases the range and flexibility of gear ratios.  Most significantly, the system has been highly praised for the confidence it offers in the feel of the gear change, which is a critical issue for the rider.  The gearbox is completely integrated with the engine and shares a common oil system.   The material specification is again shared with F1 technology.

Other driveline components on display include a ‘622’ high precision rack and pinion steering assembly.   With years of experience supplying F1 teams, Xtrac has designed its own range of steering rack assemblies, built to a similar high specification, which can be used in other high performance vehicle applications.  The advanced design incorporates fully ground gears, a rack extension of titanium or steel and high specification bushes.  The rack and pinion is contained in  a single housing of lightweight magnesium. 

The showcase of products also includes Xtrac’s ‘420’ in-car gear lever designed as a low cost solution for use with its sequential gearboxes.   The lever supports universal installation, and is designed to link to gearboxes installed in the front or rear of the vehicle, with the linkage mounted above or below the transmission tunnel.  Included with the lever is a reverse gear detent lift handle.  The lever is offered in two versions, a basic specification for manual shifts, and a power shift version with micro switches to provide an input signal to the ECU.  Value engineered to meet strict cost constraints, this lever offers high quality at a cost effective price.

Established for 25 years, Xtrac is a world leader in the design and manufacture of gearboxes, differentials and driveline components, which are used throughout motorsport and in particular within F1, IRL, Baja, Touring Cars, Rallying, A1GP, Dakar and other forms of sportscar racing including a major involvement in the Le Mans 24 hours.  Further information on Xtrac is available at www.xtrac.com.  

Super 2000 flies the flag for UK transmission technology

Since 2007 Xtrac customers have been competing in the FIA Super 2000 category with the very successful transverse engine 4WD ‘532’ gearbox, rear differential and unique patent pending handbrake disconnect mechanism. The transmission has the possibility of a spool or centre differential, as well as adjustable front and rear differentials. It has been homologated for use by 5 manufacturers including MG, Opel, Proton, Skoda and Abarth, with excellent reliability and race results.

To quote one customer recently

“We have now completed 3,500 KM. All of which has been on tarmac except for a short gravel test of 100 KM. We have thoroughly inspected the transmission every 1000 KM’s and have yet to replace any parts. This includes bearings, seals, dog rings, gears, selector forks and even diff plates.”

With the FIA allowing additional gearbox designs to be homologated from 2010 – 2012 and no centre differential allowed, Xtrac has taken the opportunity to introduce a direct descendent of the earlier transmission – the ‘633’. The targets for the new range of transmissions were to have a smaller, lighter package, due to the spool only configuration, and increasing the durability of the gearbox for Super 2000 applications. The gearbox is available with either a conventional final drive set up (‘633A’) or an epicyclic final drive (‘633B’) that offers lower centre of gravity and gearbox outputs, and allows the front differential to be closer to the engine block with more space for the steering rack if needed.

The updated rear differential and handbrake disconnect is shorter to allow for improved fuel tank positioning and the oil system has been optimised to assist rear differential cooling.

Options include a variety of output flange configurations and bespoke castings. Versions of the ‘633’ gearbox are already testing and the first homologation is due very soon.

Most importantly both the ‘532’ and the ‘633’ range of gearboxes have been rated to 600Nm so are well within the capabilities of the new range of 1600cc turbo charged engines.

Meanwhile, in South America

For 2009 Xtrac was chosen as the sole supplier for two new South American Championships, with the debut of Xtrac’s ‘396B’ gearbox in the Brazilian Copa NEXTEL Stock Car series (See Summer 2008 newsletter) and the ‘426’ gearbox in the Argentinean TC2000 Touring Car championship.

Xtrac engineers travelled to Sao Paulo to supervise the launch and installation of the ‘396B’ gearbox - a further evolution of the well-established Grand Am Daytona Prototype sports car gearbox , in the completely re-designed Brazilian NEXTEL Stock Cars. For 2009, this popular series had a new chassis (designed in Italy by Nisci), sealed 480bhp engines and gearboxes for all the competitors. Manufacturers Chevrolet and Peugeot are represented by series-mandated body styles which are equalised aerodynamically. The season consists of 12 rounds across 9 different venues, beginning and ending at the Sao Paulo circuit.

With the gearbox sealed by the organiser, all service duties are conducted at the JL Industries facility in Sao Paulo. Xtrac engineers conducted a thorough training seminar at the start of the season for their staff and assisted in organising routine maintenance procedures.

Immediately after the Stock car event, Xtrac's engineers arrived in Cordoba, Argentina for the opening round of the TC2000 Touring car championship which saw the introduction of the ‘426’ gearbox as the sole gearbox for this long-running series that celebrated its 30th anniversary this year. Both the engine and gearbox projects (40 sets of each) were delivered from scratch within 100 days from date of order, quite an accomplishment by all parties involved, suppliers as well as constructors and teams.

Testimony to the popularity and prestige of this Championship is the fact that eight automotive manufacturers and ten body styles are represented. Oreste Berta SA were selected to provide power plants and were instrumental in bringing Xtrac to the series. TC2000 cars and regulations are technically challenging with a standard sheet metal skin masking a full tube-frame chassis and sophisticated aerodynamics.

The series organisers hosted a technical training seminar for all teams in which the primary focus was the Xtrac gearbox. During the seminar the Xtrac engineers undertook assembly demonstrations utilising a test gearbox and then a question and answer session finished off the day.

Fourteen teams were responsible for the thirty-two cars that completed the conversion to 2009 specifications in time for the opening round.

Many of the factory teams operate technical and driver development programmes, and the majority of drivers are recognised sporting celebrities. The Xtrac team visited every team and advised on installation details and answered any technical questions.

Xtrac’s first full season in South America has been a huge success and what has been noticeable is the intense passion and enthusiasm demonstrated by all the South American customers.

Xtrac – building up in the USA...

Since opening in 2003 Xtrac’s facility in Indianapolis has continued to support an ever expanding range of motorsport categories. Originally conceived as a support centre with spares inventory and engineering back up the need to support both our North and South American clients has necessitated the expansion of the facility to allow for not just the servicing but also the building of transmissions and differentials on site.

Despite an uncertain economy, Xtrac remains firmly committed to the American racing markets. In January, gearbox builds for the Daytona 24 hour event were undertaken and these builds were closely followed with more for the Indy Racing League series and the Indy 500 itself.

The expansion of the services offered at our Indianapolis facility is a natural evolution creating an ever positive presence in the marketplace and helping us build closer relationships with our clients.

Click here for Xtrac USA

To enable the building of transmission and differentials the build facility was reconfigured to accommodate batch-building of sub assemblies and complete gearboxes. The project focused on increased efficiency within the main warehouse, an increased footprint of the machine shop, improved component work flow and the addition of a completely new assembly shop. Each gearbox and differential assembly is subjected to the same vigorous spin rig build ‘sign off’ test that would occur had it been built at the Thatcham facility, with fully aligned test procedures and IT infrastructure.

The modifications made have enabled Xtrac Inc to support their customers more efficiently and has also provided the extra capacity to enable Xtrac Inc production to expand in response to anticipated future demands.

Not only Indy but also Charlotte, North Carolina

Xtrac is pleased to announce that with effect from January 2010, a new permanent engineering presence is being set up at premises in Mooresville near Charlotte, North Carolina. Paul Barton, one of Xtrac’s Senior Commercial Engineers will be based at the facility.

Paul will be working very closely with Xtrac Inc in Indianapolis and the engineers in the UK to offer customers high level and confidential engineering support and will be building upon the experience he gained whilst previously working at Xtrac’s Indianapolis facility.

Xtrac offers a range of products suitable for the NASCAR Sprint Cup, Nationwide and Camping World Truck Series, including gearboxes, crown wheel and pinions, service contracts and engineering consultancy.

Xtrac’s Managing Director, Peter Digby, said “This is an exciting and long overdue development in Xtrac’s growth. We have been involved with NASCAR now for the last 5 years and want to offer our customers the ability to deal directly with Xtrac’s team of engineers and analysts”.

Click here for Xtrac USA

Testing, testing torsion bar manufacture to rigorously high standards

Xtrac have recently installed and commissioned an MTS servo hydraulic test machine. The machine has full force and displacement control with a main test frame capacity of 100kN with a secondary capacity of 25kN. There is a working height of one metre on the T-Slot bed of size 1.5 x 2.0m with a multi channel data logging facility, networked to the IT infrastructure in a dedicated and confidential laboratory within the Thatcham facility.

The test machine can be used to carry out a specific customer test programme for example material coupon testing (metallics and carbon fibre) or component proof testing. There is also a climate chamber with up to 250 deg C capability.

Mounted on the test machine is bespoke designed torsion bar spring scragging ’pre stress’ and torsion bar rate measurement modular hardware which can be adapted to suit torsion bar spring sizes used typically in formulae such as Formula One and Sportscars.

Having the machine enables Xtrac to offer a complete design and manufacture service for torsion bar spring solutions using high specification titanium alloys and steels.

http://www.sciencemuseum.org.uk/objects/temporary_exhibitions/E2008,-d-,190,-d-,2.aspx

Xtrac is committed to energy conservation whether it is through designing more efficient transmission system or through application of technologies such as energy recovery which could be utilised in all forms of motorsport and also in Xtrac’s ever increasing range of Automotive applications.

F1 requirement for gearboxes to last more than one race has implications for vehicles generally says transmission expert Xtrac

The advent of new high performance steels for motorsport gearboxes developed by transmission specialist Xtrac - the latest specification of steel being required to significantly extend the life of a Formula One gearbox - could be broadly applied to a wide range of vehicles to improve their driveline reliability and efficiency says the company’s chief metallurgist Steve Vanes.

Best known for the gearboxes and driveline components it develops for numerous motorsport formulas and high performance road cars, Xtrac will help spread its specialist knowledge this week by joining a group of experts from industry and academia looking at cutting-edge technologies that could enhance the performance of transmission systems generally.

The high level seminar, which has been organised by the Aerospace Industries Division of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, aims to transfer vital expertise between different transport sectors. The advanced techniques that can be used to improve gearbox performance and the technical knowledge conveyed will help facilitate the development of more efficient, reliable and competitive designs. The seminar is being held on Wednesday 14 October 2009 at AgustaWestland Helicopters in Yeovil.

“From a cultural point of view the world of motorsport has changed considerably,” says Vanes, “and the costs and relevance of its technology to wider consumer markets has become more important. For example, the trend towards engine downsizing in road vehicles to improve fuel efficiency and reduce CO2 emissions can be complemented by the downsizing of transmissions, requiring the intervention of new technologies and manufacturing processes for stronger and more lightweight components. ”

Before joining Xtrac in 2003, Vanes specialised in the heat treatment of steels with Lucas Industries and then added to his materials expertise by working on high tech bearings for Timken Aerospace. He’ll present a technical paper at the seminar on Xtrac’s development of special steels for motorsport transmissions, citing the recent cost cutting measures in F1, which have lead to the development of a brand new specification of steel; necessary to extend the service life of gears, shafts, bearings, dog rings, hubs, selector forks, final drives and other highly stressed driveline components.

“Previously, the typical life of a set of gears for a main shaft was approximately 350,000 cycles,” says Vanes. “The requirement to further extend the life of an F1 gearbox could equate to a life of more than 2.5 million cycles. Shifting the emphasis in F1 to endurance and reliability has the additional benefit of making the technology more relevant to road cars – as well as further hastening our steel development programme.”

Over the years, Xtrac has progressively developed a whole family of special steels to meet various motorsport requirements, the most recent being for the increased longevity and fatigue resistance required in F1 gearboxes. Xtrac steels are tempered at higher temperatures than normal steels (200-350oC compared with 140-150oC), expanding the possibilities for surface enhancement processes such as physical vapour deposition (PVD is used in the manufacture of items ranging from semiconductor devices to coated cutting tools for metalworking), which require high temperatures that would affect the underlying hardness of normal steels. The development of ultra high strength steels (up to 2,000MPa), which can be tempered at temperatures more compatible with physical vapour deposition, extends considerably the range of low friction coatings and solid lubricants that can now be exploited – which in turn can have a dramatic impact on transmission efficiency and reliability.

“Fundamental to the creation of a new specification of steel is our understanding of the interaction of the material’s innumerable physical and chemical properties with its heat treatment and the possibilities for sophisticated coatings and lubrication, which ultimately influences component performance,” says Vanes. “You might perceive it as standard practice, but in fact developing all new steels with the specific properties we require for race components is actually a fairly innovative concept even within the context of the motorsport industry. The process has evolved over the past 20 years, so we now have considerable experience in this field from our earliest evaluations, which gives us a clear picture of how alloy type and heat treatment affect mechanical and ultimately component properties. The underlying principles and processes we’ve developed can be applied to the automotive mainstream and other transport sectors including aerospace and would help to improve the efficiency of transmissions generally.”

“As well as understanding the interaction of the steel with its heat treatment, another fundamental relationship exists between the metallurgist and designer. In motorsport, the development of new materials and the design of components are always at the cutting edge. The feedback from races and analysis of parts is instant, which accelerates the whole development process. If a part doesn’t break then the designer is motivated to push the envelope even further; yet being even marginally over the limit will immediately reveal itself when a part does fail. This rapid pace of development is probably unique to motorsport and not only helps bring forward the development of new materials but also helps optimise the design of individual components.”

Established for 25 years, Xtrac is a world leader in the design and manufacture of gearboxes, differentials and driveline components, which are used throughout motorsport and in particular within F1, IRL, Sportscar, including its major involvement in the Le Mans 24 hour race, Touring Cars, Rallying, A1GP, Dakar and Baja racing. For a lot longer, indeed almost as long as there have been vehicles, engineering steels have been extensively developed and researched creating a wide and varied range of commercially available alloys. Relatively few however have found favour in motorsport applications, leading to the development by Xtrac of its special motorsport steels, developed in collaboration with Corus. In fact the relationship with Corus Engineering Steels stems back to the early 1990s with the introduction of the first bespoke steel by Xtrac (XVAR1), a vacuum arc re-melted version of the primary gear steel (En36C) then used in motorsport applications.


More info online at : http://autospeed.com/cms/A_111693/article.html

Further information on Xtrac is available at www.xtrac.com. Further information on the seminar is available at http://events.imeche.org/EventView.aspx?EventID=591

Xtrac media contact: Rob Palmer on +44 1582 763255 or +44 7768 242761 or rpalmer@palmerpr.com . Images and previous press releases can be downloaded from www.newspress.co.uk. For a copy of Steve Vanes’ technical presentation please contact Rob Palmer.

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Xtrac Showcase to MOD Engineers

Innovative vehicle components with applications beyond motorsport were presented by transmission technology specialist Xtrac at a special Defence Engineering and Science Group (DESG) conference held at Twickenham Stadium today.

Xtrac was part of a group from the Motorsport Industry Association specially invited to showcase its advanced technology and world-class design capabilities to hundreds of Ministry of Defence engineers and scientists.  The influential MOD conference had been encouraged by Lord Drayson to focus on the importance of rapid technical innovation as exemplified by the motorsport industry.

MIA CEO Chris Aylett and Bloodhound SSC’s Richard Noble both addressed the conference on ‘The Need For Speed’ underlining the industry’s exceptional ability for rapid product development and meeting almost impossible deadlines each race weekend.    The MOD agreed to allow MIA members this unique opportunity to showcase its products, enabling its engineers to consider the motorsport industry’s renowned pace of development and ability to pursue innovative and speedy solutions.

For defence engineers with responsibility for designing vehicles with robust off road performance, Xtrac presented its ‘522’ super heavy duty differential.   This special axle unit is designed for both front and rear drive applications, typically for cross country or rally raid vehicles, and is of the type that would be highly suitable for use in light armoured vehicles.  The oil system and universal mountings allow the differential to operate in virtually any orientation, which combined with its high quality and low cost make this product ideal for a wide variety of endurance type events.  The unit builds on the company’s distinguished record for reliability and performance in the famous Dakar rally raid event. 

Other Xtrac components presented to the MOD engineers included a ‘622’ high precision rack and pinion steering assembly.   With years of experience supplying F1 teams, Xtrac has designed its own range of steering rack assemblies, built to a similar high specification, which can be used in other high performance vehicle applications.  The advanced design incorporates fully ground gears, a rack extension of titanium or steel and high specification bushes.  The rack and pinion is contained in single housing of lightweight magnesium.  

The MOD engineers also had the opportunity to study Xtrac’s ‘420’ in-car gear lever designed as a low cost solution for use with its sequential gearboxes.   The lever supports universal installation, and is designed to link to gearboxes installed in the front or rear of the vehicle, with the linkage mounted above or below the transmission tunnel.  Included with the lever is a reverse gear detent lift handle.  The lever is offered in two versions, a basic specification for manual shifts, and a power shift version with micro switches to provide an input signal to the ECU.  Value engineered to meet strict cost constraints, this lever offers high quality at a cost effective price.

Established for 25 years, Xtrac a world leader in the design and manufacture of gearboxes, differentials and driveline components, which are used throughout motorsport and in particular within Formula One, IRL, Baja, Touring Cars, Rallying, A1GP, Dakar and other forms of sportscar racing including a major involvement in the Le Mans 24 hours.  Increasingly, demand for Xtrac’s advanced engineering and manufacturing capabilities has come from other transport sectors to help design and develop new and innovative products.

 “The MOD engineers were keen to learn about the UK’s multi-billion pound motorsport industry and its advanced engineering skills,” said Xtrac development director Cliff Hawkins.  “Our ability to innovate and do so quickly are among the qualities needed by the MOD to help develop new military vehicles.  Our skill set is transferrable and increasingly sought after by the aerospace, automotive, defence and marine sectors as they seek to step up the pace and develop new products a lot faster.”

An interview with Xtrac technical director Adrian Moore published recently in Dealer Management Weekly will appear in the widely read US motor industry publication Automotive Digest on 1 September 2009.

Interview editor Connie Shedron had the opportunity to speak with Adrian at the ‘Race goes Green’ conference held at Long Beach California preceding a race of the popular American Le Mans Series in April. Adrian had been invited to join a panel of global motorsport experts to discuss future technology trends and the potential for the motorsport industry to develop technical solutions that could help reduce the environmental impact of vehicles generally.

Automotive Digest and Dealer Management are weekly electronic newsletters published by Automotive Information Network, which provides a digest of automotive industry news published by major national magazines, newspapers and news agencies. The network reaches an audience of nearly 75,000 automotive executives.

With its emphasis on quality, precision and power, Xtrac, leading supplier of high-performance transmissions systems for the motorsport industry, believes that its real competitive advantage lies within its talented and highly qualified workforce.

‘Employing the best of the best is key to Xtrac’s continued success,’ says apprentice co-ordinator Warren Page. ‘We rely on a multi-skilled workforce with both technical and manufacturing knowledge and expertise. That’s why we run our own apprenticeship programme – to develop genuine potential and equip our workforce with relevant experience and qualifications.’

Xtrac recruits two apprentices each year to undertake its bespoke three-to-four-year programme. Aged between 16 and 19, and with a minimum of four GCSEs, the apprentices are recruited straight from school or college. An interest in mechanics and a passion for motorsport is a genuine advantage. Each apprentice spends 16 months visiting every Xtrac department, developing a wide range of skills. Alongside this is essential on-the-job training. The apprentices also attend Newbury College to study for Key Skills qualifications and a range of national and higher national certificates. Each apprentice also works towards the City & Guilds NVQ Level 2 in Performing Engineering operations. They undertake 10 units for a broad-based understanding of engineering principles and practices, as well as to fine-tune specific skills. ‘The City & Guilds NVQ not only equips our apprentices with knowledge and skills, it also provides them with a recognised and respected qualification – one that Xtrac can rely on for quality and relevance. It really delivers,’ says Warren.

Warren supports every apprentice at Xtrac and works closely with them to help identify which area of the business they want to specialise in at the end of the initial 16-month phase. Then, the apprentices undertake either the City & Guilds NVQ Level 3 in Mechanical Manufacturing Engineering (for work based on the factory floor) or the NVQ Level 3 in Engineering Technical Support (for computer-aided design and quality assessment).

The benefits of these awards are clear to Page. ‘The NVQs help our apprentices develop the confidence to work on their own and make decisions for themselves. Many of them quickly move on to management and all of them are multi-skilled. Their expertise makes them a real asset to Xtrac. We can be 100 per cent confident that those achieving NVQ Level 3 can perform independently and to a high standard, and that they have a thorough understanding of all the related technology.’ Xtrac is justifiably proud of its apprenticeship programme and the high calibre of permanent employees it produces. ‘We’ve got a great history with our apprentices,’ Page is happy to reveal. ‘They all stay with us on completion of the programme and many of them are now running work teams within departments. The City & Guilds NVQs really do underpin our apprenticeship programme. They are directly relevant to what we do on a number of fronts – technical skills, knowledge of equipment, systems and materials, quality, safety, communication. They are also kept up to date – vital in the constantly developing motorsport sector. Association with City & Guilds qualifications can only enhance Xtrac’s reputation for developing a talented, winning workforce.’

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Race for clean cars is increasing demand for motorsport engineering skills says Xtrac

The motorsport transmission specialist Xtrac is experiencing increased demand for its advanced engineering skills, which are required to help develop new hybrid and electric vehicles; the technology provider and supplier of transmission components to F1 teams and other race formulas says the demand for prototype gearboxes shows no signs of abatement.

“I have recently checked through our records and remarkably over the last couple of years we have made over 70 gearboxes for hybrid and electric vehicles with all manner of innovative automotive powertrain configurations,” says technical director Adrian Moore.  “By the end of the year we will be getting close to producing 100 prototype transmissions; mostly destined for technology evaluation road cars.”

A pioneer for almost a decade in energy efficient motorsport initiatives, Xtrac has been increasingly selected as a technical partner for the development of more energy efficient road vehicles.  In 2006 it produced the gearbox for the world's first commercially viable diesel-electric powertrain, prepared by Zytek - another motorsport engineering company - for assessment by carmakers in a vehicle fully meeting the requirements of the UK government’s Ultra Low Carbon Car Challenge (ULCCC).

More recently, Xtrac has underscored its involvement in the development of motorsport’s high-profile KERS or kinetic energy recovery system to produce a road-going version of the technology through a consortium consisting of Flybrid, Ford, Prodrive, Ricardo and Torotrak.  Headed by Jaguar Land-Rover and supported by the UK government’s Technology Strategy Board, the consortium aims to prove the effectiveness and viability of a flywheel hybrid system for high volume series production.

The increased level of road car business experienced by Xtrac exemplifies the trend for the automotive industry to tap into the engineering knowledge and manufacturing know-how of companies that have honed their skills serving the highly competitive world of motorsport.  The high-level technology provider is also increasingly involved in advanced engineering projects for other industries such as the aerospace, defence and marine sectors.

“Our speed of response and can do attitude are essential requirements in the race to produce a new generation of green cars and help overcome the significant technological challenges presented by hybrid and electric vehicles,” says Moore, who has been invited to join a panel of motorsport experts to discuss future technology trends at a Cleaner Racing Conference being held in the U.S. on 16 April 2009 organised by the Motorsport Industry Association.

“Panellists drawn from the world of motorsport will discuss the potential of our industry to develop technical solutions that can help reduce the environmental impact of vehicles,” says Moore.  “They will be joined by senior executives from the automotive and aerospace communities and new energy companies to discuss how motorsport’s advanced engineering capabilities can help solve the energy efficiency problem.”

The British company can address a US audience with some authority; it supports important race series such as the Indy Racing League, Grand AM Sportscar Series, American Le Mans Series, SCCA, NASCAR and the NHRA from its engineering facilities located just a few minutes drive from the famous Indianapolis Motor Speedway.  The US operation is linked electronically to the company’s headquarters at Thatcham in Berkshire, which forms part of the UK’s famous motorsport valley.  A rolling exchange of engineers between the two sites ensures that the latest engineering and quality standards are maintained throughout the company.

“There are many additional partners and industry bedfellows with an important role to play in the development of energy-efficient vehicles,” says Moore.  “For example, the recent announcement by the United States Department of Energy (DOE) to expand the FreedomCAR project with the inclusion of electric utility companies - driven by the development of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles and the need for coordination between electric-based vehicle technology and the electric utility infrastructure - shows that no resource can be ignored in the development of a new generation of clean cars.”

“Others heavily involved in this type of work include organisations such as the US Oak Ridge National Laboratory,” says Moore, “which is similarly partnering with the automotive industry to meet US national goals for the use of renewable fuels and can provide wide ranging research and development facilities for tackling transportation issues.”

The ‘Race goes Green’ conference is being held in Long Beach, California on 16 April 2009 preceding a race of the popular American Le Mans Series.

Further information on Xtrac is available at www.xtrac.com.  Further information on the conference is available at www.the-mia.com.

Historic Dakar Diesel Victory

The 31st running of the legendary Dakar Rally took place in the South American countries of Argentina and Chile. A new continent for what is arguably one of the toughest motorsport events in the world but one which offered the same level of difficulty as found in Africa, saw the Volkswagen team take a historic victory with the first Diesel powered car to win the event outright. Previously the best placed Diesel vehicle was in 2006 when Volkswagen finished in second place.

If winning was all that Volkswagen had realised that in itself would have been a fantastic achievement, but the team scored an amazing 1st, 2nd and 6th position – all with Diesel powered cars utilising Xtrac gearboxes and differentials. Additionally, Volkswagen secured 10 stage victories from a possible 13, again proving the utter dominance and reliability of the Volkswagen Touareg.

Xtrac have worked with the Volkswagen Audi Group for over 10 years developing ground breaking Diesel transmissions and the greatest endurance races in the world such as Dakar, the Le Mans 24 hours and the Sebring 12 hour events have only ever seen Diesel powered victories by cars using Xtrac transmissions.

Xtrac would like to congratulate all of their customers for their performances in this most gruelling of events, especially the 6 who finished in the top 10 of the car class.

With years of experience supplying high precision racks and pinions for F1 teams to construct their own steering assemblies, Xtrac has seen a unique opportunity to design its own range of steering rack assemblies, built to a similar high specification, which it can then supply to other race formula.
  
The Xtrac design comprises a rack and pinion steering assembly, featuring fully ground gears, a titanium or steel rack extension and high specification bushes.  It weighs less than 1.8kg complete.  The steering rack is assembled and tested under strict quality control procedures.   This has required Xtrac to invest in a special test rig to validate each assembly and ensure each one is built to the same consistent high standard.  

The initial application for Xtrac’s high specification steering assembly will be LMP1 and LMP2 cars, which typically use an in-column electrical power assistance system, which the Xtrac system is designed to interface with.   The steering rack and pinion assembly design is modular so can be made bigger or smaller for other vehicle installations. The rack and pinion is contained in a one-piece lightweight magnesium housing, allowing various length arms to be fitted, further easing its application into a variety of race cars.  

Particular attention has been paid to the ease of backlash adjustment during build to ensure the assembly provides the optimum feel for the driver with the least set-up time.  A mount and drive system is included to permit the fitment of a potentiometer to monitor steering angle.  
The new steering rack assembly further benefits from Xtrac’s continued investment in the latest manufacturing processes, which allow the company to compete globally and meet the exacting standards of the motorsport industry.

As part of Xtrac’s developing business outside of the motorsport arena, Xtrac have worked with South African company, Caudwell Marine, on a revolutionary new marine drive leg design. The Axis Drive™ is the brainchild of South African entrepreneur Mike Beachy Head who has led the engineering team to develop the concept from inception to its first production phase and launch at the International Boat Builder’s Exhibition and Conference (IBEX) in Miami Florida in October. Well known for putting Cape Town’s Thunder City on the map as the world’s largest civilian owned operational fleet of ex – military jets, Beachy Head has driven the Axis Drive development with the same passion and determination.

These very qualities attracted the interest of a similar minded entrepreneur in the form of UK-based billionaire John Caudwell. After flying in a Lightning T5, his sense of adventure, passion for speed and like -minded people drew him to become interested in both Thunder City and the Axis Drive™ concept. After successfully selling his Phones 4 U business in 2007, a business which had developed into a multibillion pound enterprise, Caudwell chose to invest in Thunder City and Caudwell Marine due to their global positioning and conceptual excellence.

There is significant export potential for the revolutionary Axis Drive™ recreational marine propulsion system. As a challenger product in the competitive but large US leisure marine industry, Caudwell Marine’s initial partnering with like-minded independent boat builders has generated significant interest. The solid experience gained over 12 years by sister company Thunder City, which has become a global icon for the maintenance and performance of its fleet of 15 classic jets, has set the standard for the development and technical expertise required for this new project.

Caudwell Marine chose Xtrac as a supplier capable of taking the design from a very early concept through pre production prototypes to production prototypes. Xtrac’s expertise is being able to evaluate a basic design using state of the art analysis tools and in house expertise built up through almost 25 years of business.

Although marine propulsion systems for the leisure boating market have improved over the past few decades, there have been no fundamental changes. Caudwell Marine systems have now rewritten the rule book on how to get greater efficiency to the propeller in the water and consequently enhance the total boating experience as well as speeding up the boat assembly process. The South African developed and internationally patented design incorporated into the ‘vertical intelligent architecture™’, provides exciting improvements for the leisure boating market in the 16 to 40 foot range. Strong supply and technology relationships have been established with global development partners including Nissan Infinity engines, Xtrac transmission systems, Cosworth, Ford and Ilmor.

Xtrac recently participated at the Professional MotorSport World (PMW) Expo and presented for the very first time its new transmission system developed for the A1 Grand Prix ‘World Cup of Motorsport’ race series.   Xtrac also unveiled its new range of steering rack assemblies as well as the latest gearboxes and differentials for rally, touring and sports cars.   The three-day exposition ran from 11-13 November 2008 at the Koelnmesse exhibition centre.

To complement their attendance at the PMW show, Xtrac also exhibited at the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) show held this December in Orlando, Florida and will do so again at the Autosport International show held at the NEC in Birmingham during January 2009.

Commenting on the series of shows which also included visiting the new Motorsport Expotech in Modena, Xtrac’s managing director, Peter Digby states “Attendance at these valuable shows, not only allows us to market our company’s latest developments and meet new potential clients but it also permits us to meet with our existing clients in a cost effective and time efficient manner”

The new A1GP gearbox, designed and manufactured by Xtrac at its technical centre at Thatcham in Berkshire, was required for the 2008/9 series, which commenced racing this September.  It follows a six year agreement between the A1GP organisers and Ferrari to consult on the design and manufacture of a new race car, which is powered by a Ferrari V8 engine.  The longitudinal gearbox with its magnesium casing was designed from a clean sheet of paper to suit the new chassis.   The transmission is mated to a Magneti Marelli paddle shift gear selection system. 

Xtrac have designed a 4WD gearbox and driveline designed to meet the latest FIA Super 2000 regulations introduced in 2007.   Xtrac is an approved supplier for many high performance series and its ‘532’ six-speed sequential transmission and rear differential for four wheel drive rally cars, which typically have power outputs of 280bhp and deliver 250Nm of torque, reflect FIA requirements for a reliable and durable transmission at low cost, which can offer excellent value for money.

The new  gearbox is now being used in the MG and Proton S2000 cars and the Monte Carlo Rally will see both Skoda and Fiat cars campaigning with the ‘532’ gearbox. Following confirmation of the FIA’s plans for 2011-2013  Xtrac can confirm that the gearbox is also available for the new S2000+/WRC formula.

Whilst Xtrac supplies works sportscar teams with gearboxes designed to an ultimate specification, it can also offer a customer version of its ‘529’ gearbox, which has arguably become the gearbox of choice for a LMP1 or LMP2 series car.  This gearbox has been used extensively at Le Mans, LMS and ALMS races. Designed in such a way that various size clusters can be used, this gearbox is now well suited for use in GT1 and GT2 cars where it has already been used to good effect.

Xtrac’s award-winning ‘516’ transmission last year received the “Most Innovative New Motorsport Product of the Year Award”.  The award was presented for its pioneering work in developing a reliable, lightweight and cost-effective high performance gearbox for race teams competing in the World Touring Car Championship.  The new gearbox applies Xtrac’s longstanding expertise and adopts design principles to minimise its mass, size and inertia.  Particular attention in the design was paid to improve gear-change response and feel, and differential performance.

In addition to its rear differential for four wheel drive rally cars, Xtrac can also offer its well proven ‘522’ unit, which is popular with cross country rally raid vehicles participating in Rally raid events.   These units provide just two examples from the wide range of differentials Xtrac can offer professional rally and race car teams.

Since 2007, Xtrac have been in the process of implementing a new ERP system as part of the company’s continuous improvement policy. On the 1st December the new system went live in both our UK and US facilities.

So, what exactly is ERP and why did Xtrac need it?
ERP stands for Enterprise Resource Planning, which is the industry term used to describe software that integrates departments and functions across a company into one central computer system. Simply put, the aim of the project was to link the whole business together using one software system.
Our previous MRP “Manufacturing Resource Planning” system had been in use within Xtrac since 1st December 1996, exactly 12 years to the day when we switched to our new system. Over these 12 years there have been substantial advances in computer systems and massive changes with the companies which support them.
Xtrac’s policy is to continually invest in the latest machine tools and engineering design software, to adopt more efficient working practices for our employees. For Xtrac to keep advancing and diversifying while also remaining flexible and competitive it was essential to have a modern, integrated and adaptable system upon which we run our operations.
To assist with the selection process we secured the services of CCL a consultancy that specialise in ERP system selection and in parallel we committed an internal resource by forming a dedicated ERP project team which took a “Champion” from each area of the business to be dedicated to the implementation process. Many systems were considered but the Epicor system offered an excellent functional fit to Xtrac’s requirements.

What changes should Xtrac and our customers expect?
Integrated system – By consolidating many of our current systems, databases and reports into one single database all related data will be easier to access. Minimising the need to re-enter duplicate information time and again as systems will use a common database.

Fully linked Engineering and ERP system – Data will be directly transferable from the engineering database to the ERP system allowing significant time savings in transferring engineering information such as bills of materials.

Reduced paperwork – Bill of Materials, control plans, sales orders and many other engineering / production documents can be viewed from terminals throughout the company. Invoices and despatch notes between our two divisions will be sent electronically as now both plants operate under a common system.

Optimised and Automated workflow – Working closely with our ISO9001 implementation we have optimised and standardised the majority of our business processes, the new ERP system manages workflow electronically rather than via pieces of paper between departments and individuals.

Why Epicor?
Firstly and most importantly, Vantage consistently outperformed all of the other systems we looked at throughout the selection process in terms of meeting and exceeding our functional requirements.
Epicor are one of only a handful of companies recognised as a ‘Gold Certified Partner’ by Microsoft. This close working partnership has allowed Vantage to be constructed using the latest technology available, allowing it to communicate easily with other systems such as our Unigraphics CAD software, as well as being very flexible. Having this flexibility and connectivity means we can configure Vantage to meet the specific demands of Xtrac, without the need for software modification.
Epicor have a great pedigree, with over 20 years of experience in providing integrated ERP solutions to the manufacturing industry, and currently serving over 20,000 customers in more than 140 countries.

The Challenge
Choosing the system was the easy task, the real work involved the implementation of the system whilst causing the minimum amount of disruption to ourselves and our customers. Vantage is an ‘off the shelf’ ERP software package designed to cover every aspect of any company’s operations, from Manufacturing to Finance, from Sales to Engineering, and everything in between. In it’s ‘off the shelf’ condition Vantage is not configured to deal with all of Xtrac’s current processes exactly. We wanted to utilise as many of the ‘standard’ Vantage processes as possible, but there were some processes that are fundamental to our business and that we have to do in a certain way, and this is where the majority of the system design work took place.
Vantage allows us to bring all our systems together in one place, as well as delivering the individual effectiveness of each system. To do this though we needed to take the time and effort to ensure that Vantage could deliver not only the functionality we have today, but also make the all important improvements to allow our business to progress and continually improve.

After over four and a half years as Chairman of the Motorsport Industry Association, Peter Digby, Managing Director, has stood down and passes the Chairman role to Alistair Fergusson, Managing Director of Alcon Components, who has been the Vice Chairman throughout Peter’s tenure.

Having been in the role for more than 2 two year terms, Peter said “I have really enjoyed my time as Chairman.  The industry has had some difficult times and no doubt there are more to come, so I wish Alistair all the best.  I know he will make an excellent Chairman.  As I am keeping my position on the Committee, I will be around to assist Alistair, Chris Aylett (CEO), Lord Astor (President) and the rest of the committee in the future.

In the meantime, I can now concentrate all my energies on ensuring Xtrac maintains the position as the world’s leading motorsport transmission supplier.