Thales and STC launch simulator

Thales

and Finland’s STC have launched the BUS3000 bus and coach-driving simulator, which is expected to save fuel and minimise pollution by reducing the number of training vehicles on the roads

The first simulator - which will consume six tonnes of oil equivalent (toe) per year, compared with 64 toe for a training vehicle - will be delivered to the Danish training organisation TSU in the autumn of 2008.

According to Thales, BUS3000 meets the requirements of European directive EU 2003-59, which applies to all coach, bus and truck drivers throughout the European community. As well as obtaining the relevant driving licenses, initial training for beginners and continuing training for experienced drivers will be mandatory in these categories of professional drivers when the directive comes into effect.

‘With 500,000 drivers requiring training every year, BUS3000 will help meet current requirements at the same time as responding to future mandatory training needs,’ said Chris Gane. VP Training & Simulation, Thales. ‘It overcomes the shortage of qualified driving instructors, guarantees completely safe training to reduce the risk of accidents on the road, as well as responding to environmental concerns by reducing fuel consumption and pollution. As a result, the concept represents the best training opportunity for major passenger transport operators today.’