10052094Virtual Reality Course Creation for Heavy Goods Vehicle DriversClosedGrant for R&DInnovate UKEsitu Solutions is a spinout company from Nottingham Trent University (NTU), specialising in hazard perception assessments and training modules for fleet drivers. The current HGV driver shortage in the haulage industry is a problem that touches everyone, and the Government is implementing a range of measures to increase driver numbers. Unfortunately, several of these measures (e.g., fast-track training, encouraging former drivers to return to the job) also carry with them the risk of reduced safety on UK roads. We believe this could be offset by training drivers in advanced hazard perception skills. We want to create an engaging course that will be acceptable to fleet managers and count towards their legally-required number of training hours for their HGV drivers. We have already created hazard tests for HGV drivers that can be presented inside virtual reality headsets, and now we want to expand our materials to a full 7-hour course to meet the requirements for accreditation within the industry. Additionally, we will develop a non-VR version of the course. In this version, any VR elements will be replaced with content suitable for delivery on a standard computer. This approach ensures flexibility in distributing the course in various formats. Through the development of new 360-degree content, and the creation of classroom-based activities to support VR use, we believe we can create a course that reinvigorates the HGV training industry and provides a genuine opportunity to improve road safety. Our course will be based on academic research conducted by Nottingham Trent University, and will draw on other research from around the world. All video materials are recorded from HGVs on real roads, providing a true perspective for drivers in the VR headsets, and ensuring that our hazards reflect those that HGV drivers encounter on a daily basis.