It may still be several months before trams are able to run through to Newhaven but drivers are already in training with a new state of the art custom built simulator in use at Edinburgh Trams Gogar Depot.
The simulator is part of “The Academy” which is Edinburgh Trams’ new purpose built learning and development facility. It is a full sized replica cab and allows drivers to experience the nearly 5kms of new track and the eight new stops – as well as the current line between Edinburgh Airport and St Andrew Square. There is lifelike imagery and landmarks show across the route so that drivers can get a full taste of what to expect when the extension opens.
Cllr Scott Arthur, Transport and Environment Convener at the City of Edinburgh Council, said: “It’s a matter of months before trams will begin testing on the new route, and the progress made so far is clear to see. While major construction work is almost complete, it’s fantastic that new recruits can already get a glimpse of the route and hone their skills thanks to Edinburgh Trams’ brand new simulator. The whole team at Edinburgh Trams do a fantastic job, and I look forward to working with them in the coming months to take passengers all the way to Newhaven in spring 2023. As we mark Scotland’s Climate Week the case for reliable, sustainable public transport is more important than ever. Trams to Newhaven is on target to deliver a low-carbon, high capacity and clean mode of transport to the north of the city, creating a vibrant multi-modal transport corridor through the heart of Leith.”
More than 60 new drivers and other staff members are currently being recruited in preparation for the opening of the extension, which remains on track for opening in spring 2023 with all major works completed by the end of 2022.
Lea Harrison, Edinburgh Trams Managing Director, said: “As we look forward to the launch of services to Newhaven, we’ve been working behind the scenes to invest in our future by making our training programme more comprehensive, efficient, and environmentally friendly. The new simulator delivers a wide range of benefits to our colleagues, our organisation, and ultimately our customers as it enables us to create actual traffic situations as well as realistic effects for weather and light conditions. What’s more, without limitation on access to vehicles and track, we can now accommodate up to three times as many recruits at certain points of the training programme.”
The technology of the simulator lets trainers record and stop, freeze or replay scenarios to highlight learning points at an early stage, helping increase driver competency quickly. Once tram testing on the new line begins, drivers will carry out blended training between virtual and real-life tram driving, helping to reinforce safe driving practices.
Grant Penman, is a recently appointed trainee driver, and said: “Driving on the simulator has helped me improve my concentration skills in a safe environment, while further learning about signals, speed limits, and any other distractions that could be thrown your way. It’s been great working with the Training Team and benefiting from their expert knowledge and experience. The simulator feels lifelike as if you are actually on the track with a tram!”
- Footage from the simulator can be viewed on You Tube