Tram drivers in training will be able to experience the yet to open line to Newhaven in a futuristic custom-built simulator.
The state-of-the-art full-size drivers cab unit has been set up at the Edinburgh Trams’ Gogar depot. Five kilometres of the new Leith track has been implemented into the system and prospective drivers will be able to practise travelling from Leith to Edinburgh Airport whilst looking at virtual landmarks throughout the city.
The hope is that the purpose-built simulator will be able aid driver development and heighten then ‘hazard awareness’ by familiarising themselves with intricate signals as well as traffic, pedestrians and other trams. Over 60 new drivers and staff members are being brought into the team in order to deliver the new Trams to Newhaven route.
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Grant Penman, who recently started as a Trainee Driver, 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!
“Simulator technology 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 begins, drivers will carry out blended training between virtual and real-life tram driving, helping to reinforce safe driving practices.”
Edinburgh Trams say that the route will be open to passengers in spring 2023 after more than £200m has been spent on the project. Construction of the line is expected to be completed by the end of 2022 before tests are carried out by the organisation.
Councillor Scott Arthur, Transport and Environment Convener, 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.”
Edinburgh Trams managing director Lea Harrison added: “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.”
Find out more about Trams to Newhaven, including landscape plans and timelines, online here.
You can also watch virtual footage from the tram simulator on Trams to Newhaven's YouTube channel here.
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