How to Get Involved

The Vehicle Technology & Energy Centre (VTEC) is fuelling Manitoba’s presence as a major transportation hub. VTEC connects the transportation manufacturing industry with Red River College Polytechnic researchers, staff, students and facilities.

The work developed at VTEC adds value to Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and their associated suppliers, along with utilities and energy providers, and is also of interest to fleet operators (e.g., trucking, transit, government, utility and waste/recyclable collection).

Six easy steps to bring your project ideas to life

Step 1: Eligibility Criteria

We serve original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) of agricultural equipment, buses, fire trucks, trailers, motor homes and recreational vehicles, as well as associated parts and components.

VTEC undertakes on- and off-highway vehicle technology applied research with a focus on two key themes:

Theme	Description
Vehicle Performance	Emphasizes operation and performance in extreme climates (especially cold). The use of alternative/renewable fuels, fuel efficiency and reducing emissions are all complementary elements. Supporting on- and off-highway heavy vehicle testing and development.
Vehicle Development	Addresses the technology and engineering needs related to materials, methods (manufacturing) and integration/performance of components and systems (including infrastructure requirements, such as charging systems for electric vehicles).

Step 2: Submit Your Project Idea

Bring your project idea to life utilizing the unique combination of technology, facilities and expertise from Red River College Polytechnic. To get things started, contact us and submit your project idea. Let us know what you have in mind, and we’ll help you figure out the scope of the project. To submit your project idea, fill out the contact form on this page.

Step 3: Let’s Brainstorm Together

Once you get in touch with us, we’ll work together to figure out the best way to bring your idea to life. We listen to your needs and gain a thorough understanding of the project requirements. Then we provide guidance, address uncertainties, and work to ensure your product will meet your expectations.

Step 4: Evaluate Funding Opportunities

Once we figure out the scope of your project, we’ll help you tap into funding opportunities. We have access to a pool of grants from different funding sources that support innovative services and products, applied research and industry training. The cost of the project could be partially covered by one of our funding agencies.

Step 5: Project Start

When your project is ready to start, we’ll mobilize our resources to better serve your needs. Depending on the scope of your project, you could team up with VTEC expert staff, Red River College Polytechnic instructors, students, and partner organizations to get the return on your investment. Access our technology and facilities to support your project, or we could come to you if you’re looking for convenience.

Step 6: Project Delivery

Test emissions and vehicle performance in cold-weather/extreme conditions. Create vehicle-related electronics and software. Monitor energy conservation and evaluate alternatives. At the Vehicle Technology & Energy Centre (VTEC), we strive for developing meaningful projects that can fulfill the bottom line of all organizations – bringing return to your investment. Read more about our success cases and find out how we strive to deliver our projects on time and on budget.

Why work with VTEC?

“The transition to electrification brings a rapid shift in safety and technology that our technicians need to be prepared for. The course developed with Red River College Polytechnic introduces technicians to the high-voltage electric vehicle systems needed to support both battery electric and fuel-cell battery electric vehicle technologies and prepare them for the more in-depth manufacturer training.”

Eric Rensfelt, Vehicle Systems Supervisor, Winnipeg Transit

Drive innovation by starting a project with VTEC.

Working with us gives you unparalleled access to Red River College Polytechnic’s cutting-edge technology, facilities, and expertise. Get in touch with us and propose a new project.

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