Carlile Transportation Systems has installed a new truck driving simulator at its Anchorage terminal.
This state-of-the-art computerized simulator is the first in Alaska and is custom-designed to mimic specific Alaska roadway conditions for enhanced driver training and safety, according to Carlile officials.
“The new training simulator is the first in Alaska and will enhance Carlile's safety program by reducing accidents, improving driver skills, increasing fuel economy, saving costs and saving lives,” said Harry McDonald, president of Carlile Transportation Systems, in a written statement. “It also allows for non-driving employees to get practice behind the wheel so they can train to move into a driving position.”
Manufactured by MPRI, the TransSim VS 4 will be used for driver training, for both new and experienced drivers. The training simulator combines a fully operational truck cab with the latest digital simulation technology to create life-like training scenarios to improve driving behavior and skill. The simulator removes the risk of test driving new applicants and ensures they have the necessary skills before putting them through the application process.
It can be programmed to mimic varying weather and road conditions such as hills, ice, fog or road hazards, such as debris or stalled vehicles. The computer retains driver performance and can be replayed by an instructor for training purposes.
The simulator can also be programmed for different types of trucks and trailer loads so a driver experiences how a specific truck reacts in different situations and with varying loads. In Alaska, for example, long, double-trailer configurations are common, but only experienced drivers are able to drive such a rig. The simulator allows newer drivers to get experience in a safe environment and log unlimited miles before getting onto the highway.
Carlile recently launched a national campaign for driver recruitment, called “Careers at Carlile.” Successful campaign efforts resulted in hundreds of applicants, and Carlile needed a safe and efficient method to quickly test driver qualifications. “The simulator will prove invaluable with new hire training as well as enhance internal advancement opportunities. It is similar to a flight simulator that pilots use so even the experienced drivers are lining up to take a test drive,” said John McCoy, driver trainer manager.
