Drivers on the Tyne and Wear Metro are set to prepare for the new trains due to be introduced on the network from next year by using a new state of the art simulator which has recently been installed at the Nexus Learning Centre in South Shields. The simulator has been provided by train builders Stadler and it uses CGI to give a realistic and interactive train driving experience.
The multi-million pound technology is said to herald the start of a new era for the Metro driver training programme. The entire Metro network – including all 60 stations – has been programmed in with this appearing on high resolution screens in front of the driver.
All weather conditions and potential situations from snow and high winds to cows on the line can be thrown at the driver at the touch of a button.
Michael Richardson, Head of Fleet and Depot Replacement Programme at Nexus, said: “The new simulator will be vital for getting our drivers ready for their new Metro trains. It’s a really exciting time for them to be able to use this amazing new technology. This really does mark the start of a new era in how we can train our Metro drivers and it will be in use for many years to come. We are grateful to Stadler for supplying us with such a fantastic and immersive driver training aid. We’ve never had anything like this before.
“The simulator allows the drivers to get ready for making the switch, because the new trains are much more hi-tech than the current fleet. It provides an opportunity to get used to all the various functions and features on the new trains before the drivers get the chance to drive them for real in 2023. The new Metro fleet is going to transform the Tyne and Wear Metro for customers and for the staff, delivering a step-change in quality, comfort and reliability.
“We are just a few months away from a really exciting moment when we see the first new train arrive in the region. By getting a simulator in place we are ensuring that we are ready to make a seamless transition to this modern new Metro fleet.”
The simulator enables drivers to learn how to use the new trains’ hi-tech functions, including a Train Control Management System. This allows the driver to interact with the train’s systems for the most efficient performance, and to improve on safety features.
Drivers can also familiarise themselves with new technical features in the cab including all of the new control features, gauges, switches and master controller which are used whilst driving, as well as the comfortable new seating position, and safety and security features, including new CCTV technology.
The simulator was made by CORYS in Grenoble, France. This company have been supplying training and engineering simulators for more than 30 years to the transportation, power, process industries using engineering grade modelling tools, virtual environments and control room replica and/or emulatons.