Sterling Performance was incorporated in Michigan on November 12, 1990. The organization evolved from a racing engine builder into a comprehensive testing facility, specializing in development, durability, and validation testing of fuel systems and components for automotive, marine, off-road, and industrial manufacturers.
Based in Milford, Michigan, we operate from a 34,000+ square-foot facility equipped to provide diverse testing services across automotive, OEM, marine, and industrial engine sectors — from EV battery systems to fuel permeation, environmental simulation, and custom test engineering.
Our history is reflected in our team's achievements, which include numerous world speed records and international race wins, as well as patents and top-quality tested products. Sterling Performance maintains ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accreditation.
Independent by design
Driven by data. Defined by trust.
Sterling Performance does not manufacture the fuels, coolants, additives, or battery technologies it evaluates. Our role is to provide independent testing, objective analysis, and actionable results that help customers understand, improve, and verify product performance.
Industries we serve
Automotive
Development, durability, and validation testing for OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers.
Electric Vehicles
Cell, module, and pack testing for EV and hybrid battery systems.
Marine
Fuel system, permeation, and environmental testing for marine applications.
Off-Road
Component and system validation for off-road and recreational vehicles.
Industrial
Testing for industrial engines, pumps, and manufactured components.
Heavy Equipment
Independent product validation for heavy-equipment OEMs and system suppliers.
Aerospace
Independent testing and analysis for aerospace OEM requirements and technical teams.
Small Engine & Recreation
Fuel, emissions, and durability testing for small-engine and powersport products.
Who We Serve
Technical teams that need evidence they can act on
- Automotive, heavy-equipment, and aerospace OEMs
- Fuel and coolant system suppliers
- Battery manufacturers
- Government agencies
What Sets Sterling Apart
Independent validation with practical support
- Independent testing
- Sample pickup service
- Fast reporting
- Technical expertise
- ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation
Engineering review
Have a challenging testing requirement?
Share the part or system, requirement, operating conditions, and desired outcome. Sterling's team will use that context to begin reviewing the appropriate testing approach.