An advance in tire test capability is required for the next step, simulating dynamic vehicle models on a virtual proving ground.  This paper surveys the state-of-the-art in flat belt tire testing and introduces the MTS Flat-Trac® Light Truck Racing, electric-drive (LTRe) Tire Test System, which is the required advance.  The survey explains the need for increased tire testing capability and demonstrates how the LTRe extends the state-of-the-art of flat surface tire testing and tire model characterization for integration into the virtual proving ground.  Specifically, this paper chronicles the various flat belt testing technologies and the needs they satisfied, introduces the LTRe, compares its capabilities to previous test machines, and shows how it will be integrated into the virtual proving ground development model.