Inauguration of the FIM Institute
The Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) is proud to announce the inauguration of the FIM Institute located in TechnoPark MotorLand (Alcañiz, Spain).
The Institute is a non-profit organisation set up by the FIM that develops technological solutions to improve safety in motorsport and sustainability in the world of motorcycling.
The ceremony was held on Friday 26 September, in the presence of Messrs. Vito Ippolito (FIM President), Arturo Aliaga (MotorLand President), Antonio Gasión (MotorLand CEO), Carmelo Ezpeleta (Dorna CEO), representatives of the FIM, Dorna, the local Authorities and members of the local and international Media.
After the inauguration, FIM President Vito Ippolito explained: "The FIM Institute represents a great step forward for our Federation. The safety of the riders and the circuits is a top priority for the FIM and we plan to test in these laboratories devices and materials aimed at safer motorcycling and to analyse the way accidents happen in order to try to prevent them. MotorLand offered us good facilities and high-level experts in close proximity to an important circuit. We would like to thank the local authorities and the management of MotorLand for all their support."
Mr. Arturo Aliaga added: "The presence of the FIM is an important support for TechnoPark MotorLand. The TechnoPark offers the best conditions and facilities for carrying out such tests focused on safety and this Institute is an excellent boost for the great sports and technology complex of MotorLand."
All the FIM Commissions are involved in the work of the FIM Institute. In addition to motorsport competition, the FIM also concerns itself with other, non-sporting aspects of motorcycling.
About the FIM Institute
Health and safety through technology
The FIM Institute is responsible for research and development projects focusing on different areas related to motorcycling, including road safety, medical and health prevention technology, the environment, approval of equipment, improving standards for circuits, researching new materials and improving standards for the testing of safety devices.
A wide range of expertise
The FIM Institute can call on all the capabilities and expertise offered by MotorLand Aragon and the companies and foundations located in TechnoPark MotorLand, including Moto Engineering Foundation and TESSA (Technologies and Systems for Automotive Safety Laboratory). In developing its projects, the FIM Institute can also work with many other companies and institutes depending on the Government of Aragon and offering a wide variety of expertise including engineering, nanotechnology, biocomputing, mathematics, energy, recycling, hydrogen technology and industrial design.
The Institute’s local partners
The Moto Engineering Foundation is a non-profit organisation set up in 2008 that develops research and innovation projects in specific technology applied to motorcycles and other vehicles. The headquarters has world-class high-technology facilities that include sensing labs, engine labs, dynamic labs, electronic labs and technology labs, as well as workshops to test chassis, engines and electronics, barriers, helmets and riders’ protective gear.
TESSA, also located in TechnoPark Motorland, is a company belonging to Zaragoza University that focuses its activity on impact testing. The company analyses components and systems affecting the safety of vehicles, their occupants and other users of the roads. In addition to the technological capabilities of TechnoPark MotorLand, the FIM Institute also has access to the MotorLand Aragón circuits and facilities.
MotorLand is a multifunctional complex unique in the world, with three sports areas: the road racing track, the international karting circuit and the off-road circuits (Motocross, Supermoto, Enduro, dirt track, etc.), and a place for training riders, officials and staff for competition and live testing of homologated devices.
Progress through synergies
Thanks to all these facilities, the FIM Institute is located in a technological environment that promotes synergies between different organisations. This environment helps the FIM Institute to complete its projects and achieve its objectives. This work will undoubtedly have a positive impact that will bring lasting improvements to the motorcycling world.
About the FIM (www.fim-live.com)
The FIM (Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme) founded in 1904, is the governing body for motorcycle sport and the global advocate for motorcycling. The FIM is an independent association formed by 109 National Federations throughout the world. It is recognised as the sole competent authority in motorcycle sport by the International Olympic Committee (IOC). Among its 50 FIM World Championships the main events are MotoGP, Superbike, Endurance, Motocross, Supercross, Trial, Enduro, Cross-Country Rallies and Speedway. Furthermore, the FIM is also active and involved in the following areas: public affairs, road safety, touring and protection of the environment. The FIM was the first international sports federation to impose an Environmental Code in 1994.