XPI Simulation technology at the heart of Tadea-UK’s new simulator-based driver training centre
20th May 2014
Tadea’s new centre aims to make motoring safer, greener and more financially sustainable for a variety of organisations such as local authority fleets, road haulage firms, emergency services and the passenger transport sector.
XPI’s state-of-the-art simulators range from a semi-immersed training experience using a three-screen LCD display and real car seat, to a full-size converted BMW Mini advanced vehicle simulator which offers a 360-degree fully immersed simulation experience. XPI’s unique simulator technology has been refined and made cost effective for all customers from their extensive work in Formula1™ simulation and driver training research for universities and the military.
Both types of simulator supplement the on-road and classroom training, providing a safe environment to experience educate people on smarter, fuel efficient driving, driving in adverse weather conditions and even on the effects of driver fatigue or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
John Barton, Chairman of Tadea-UK, said, “Our Effective Transport Solutions’ training packages are designed to help organisations cut fuel costs, reduce emissions and help keep their employees safe behind the wheel. Unlike ‘in-car’ training, where conditions can’t be selected on the day, XPI’s simulators enable training to be tailored to match training needs, helping to boost observational skills and improve motoring awareness whilst meeting organisations’ Corporate Social Responsibility objectives.”
Simon Skinner, Managing Director of XPI Simulation Ltd, said, “This is the first driver training centre of its kind in the UK. Tadea UK selected XPI for this project, based on our technology solutions and our partnership approach to training and education. Improving the skills and attitudes of drivers and riders, and providing better safety education through driver simulators will save lives. By working with organisations such as Effective Transport Solutions and the Let’s Grow Fund, XPI is enabling businesses and public services to improve driver efficiency whilst preventing incidents on the road.”
The project was granted £114,750 from the Let’s Grow Fund – the Journal and Evening Gazette-led collaboration with BE Group and UNW LLP which provides grant support for capital investment and research and development projects that create or safeguard jobs in the North East.
Simon Allen, Senior Project Manager, BE Group said: “We are pleased to support Tadea’s Effective Transport Solutions driver training centre through the Let’s Grow Fund. This is a unique service – one that has not been offered in the UK before and one which clearly has a great deal of potential. Having such a centre in the North East is a great opportunity for the region: not only can Tadea’s Effective Transport Solutions help to create new jobs and establish new networks, but it also looks set to open up driver training to groups and businesses not typically able to access it – helping to significantly boost levels of sustainability and safety on the UK’s roads as a result.”