A driving simulator which will be used to train drivers on the Tyne and Wear Metro’s new trains before they are introduced from next year is currently being built in France and a team from the Metro Futures, Learning and Development and Train Crew teams have recently been over to run the rule over it.
The state-of-the-art full cab driving simulator is being built by CORYS in Grenoble, South East France and is currently going through rigorous Factory Acceptance Testing. It is passing this with flying colours with the team from Metro – and a representative from train manufacturers Stadler – being impressed with the new technology.
Sarah McManus, New Fleet Project Manager, said: “The visit was a huge success and I am delighted to say our new simulator passed all of the relevant tests. We can now look forward to it being shipped across to us from France. We were able to test every aspect of the new technology in order to ensure it’s exactly to our specification. Our L&D reps Joe Dixon, Kraig Maxwell and Debbie Maughan were joined in the testing by Metro Ops Manager Suzanne Richley. They were able to cover off a wide range of issues for us with the manufacturers, which was invaluable.”
The simulator is due to be transported to the Nexus Learning Centre in May where it will be used to train drivers on the new trains. Its uses CGI to give drivers a realistic and interactive experience which will although them to familiarise themselves with new technical features in the cab, a new seating position and experience different driving and weather conditions.
Debbie Maughan, Learning and Development Manager, said: “The teams across Nexus, Stadler and Corys have worked really hard to get to this point and it was great to see this all come together. The simulator will make a big difference to Nexus training and we are looking forward to getting it on site. It’s a very exciting time for Nexus.”
The first of 46 new trains for the Metro is due to be delivered to the northeast in November.