Breaking News: Zurich City Council Approves Tram Simulator for VBZ
In a significant move to enhance public transportation safety and efficiency, the Zurich City Council has given the green light for the allocation of a state-of-the-art Tram Simulator for the Zurich Verkehrsbetriebe (VBZ). This innovative initiative aims to revolutionize driver training and accident prevention, addressing the growing demand for qualified drivers.
Simulating Zurich’s Roads for Enhanced Training
The Tram Simulator, featuring a recreated driver’s cab and instruction workplace, will allow sections of Zurich’s road network to be driven almost 1:1. This cutting-edge technology will be commissioned in the Calculation width depot by 2026, providing a safe and controlled environment for training.
Boosting Training Capacity and Efficiency
The new Tram Simulation Center will significantly increase the training capacity and efficiency of VBZ. Drivers can practice events and situations in a virtual Zurich that are otherwise difficult to simulate in real tram operations. This includes traffic, weather, and road conditions that can only be practiced with great effort in real-world scenarios.
Expert Insights and Future Implications
City Councilor Michael Baumer, head of industrial companies, highlighted the importance of this development. “With the further development and expansion of the tram network, additional and well-trained drivers are required. The tram simulator is an effective and innovative approach with which the VBZ increase the quality of its training.”
The Role of Corys SAS
According to the tendering procedure, the city council has awarded the order for the tram simulator to Corys SAS, a leading provider in the area of simulators for the traffic sector. Corys SAS will use the latest photo-realistic technologies to create virtual sections of the route based on the city geodata and those of the VBZ.
Investment and Future Plans
The city council has decided on an award order of CHF 2.5 million. This includes the basic package of CHF 1.2 million as well as various options such as a system for viewing and additional sections of the route network. The new tram simulation center in the Kalkwreit depot will start operating in 2026, complementing ongoing training and further education modules on the line network.
This strategic investment not only addresses immediate needs but also sets a precedent for future enhancements in public transportation safety and efficiency. As Zurich continues to expand its tram network, the Tram Simulator will play a crucial role in ensuring that drivers are well-prepared to handle the complexities of urban transport.
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