Opening of the High-Speed Oval track at the ZalaZONE Proving Ground

Zalaegerszeg, Hungary – May 2025 

On May 14, the ZalaZONE proving ground officially inaugurated its new high-speed oval track, which is set to become a key location for vehicle dynamics and durability testing. The 4,450-meter-long track consists of four main structural elements: two 950-meter-long straight sections and two 1,275-meter-long curved sections (with a 350-meter radius), designed using Bloss geometry to ensure smooth transitions. The four-lane track features a 16-meter-wide asphalt surface and a total crown width of 22.5 meters, with each lane uniformly 3.75 meters wide. Its design allows for gradual acceleration while maintaining vehicle stability. The neutral speed range—between 21 and 180 km/h— enables vehicles to travel in the appropriate lane without lateral acceleration, ensuring stable and safe operation. The track also supports higher sustained speeds: constant speeds of up to 270 km/h are achievable in the curves, while even higher top speeds can be reached on the straights depending on vehicle performance. With a maximum longitudinal incline of just 1%, the oval track fully complies with relevant international standards, such as UNECE R79 and ISO 15037-1. 

"With the new high-speed oval track, we are strengthening AVL ZalaZONE’s position as a leading Proving Ground in Europe," emphasized Zoltán Hamar, Managing Director of AVL ZalaZONE, during the opening ceremony. 

Lukas Walter, COO at AVL, added: "This facility not only offers a unique testing environment, but also makes a decisive contribution to the development of safe and efficient mobility solutions."

On the day of the opening, guests had the opportunity to experience the high-speed oval track firsthand: professional drivers took visitors on rides in high-performance vehicles. For two laps, guests could feel the adrenaline of speeds exceeding 200 km/h on the track’s banking curves. In addition, various special demonstrations were offered, including vehicles equipped with steering and pedal robots performing double lane changes on the dynamic platform. During the Fun Drive program, guests could experience the thrill of driving on handling courses alongside trained instructors.

About ZalaZONE 

ZalaZONE is a 250-hectare vehicle testing complex located in Western Hungary, specifically designed for the development and validation of dynamic and autonomous functions, advanced driver assistance systems, and durability testing. The proving ground is equipped to test motorcycles, passenger cars, and heavy-duty vehicles. The site offers excellent opportunities not only for surrounding regions but also for development organizations from across Europe and beyond. In addition to its state-of-the-art testing infrastructure, the complex provides comprehensive services: advanced engineering support, modern technical equipment, fully equipped workshops, skilled technicians, and a refueling station. The testing operations are complemented by office infrastructure, ADAS testing equipment, and experienced test drivers.