UPS is going to prepare drivers for dangerous road situations through virtual reality. Drivers in training will be shown realistic situations via headsets. They must then verbally identify potential road hazards.
Previously, UPS used touchscreen devices in training. From September, these will be replaced by VR modules. For now, the training is only intended for drivers who deliver parcels. UPS does not rule out using VR for training purposes in other industries as well. "VR enables a hyper-realistic image that blows away even the youngest among our drivers, who are previously familiar with the technology from video games," said Jean Perez, UPS chief information and engineering officer.
Training in a replica city
In September, UPS will start VR training in its training facilities, of which the courier company has eight in the US and two in Europe. Drivers there even practice in a replica city. According to UPS, the facilities ensure that its drivers mostly drive flawlessly. UPS rewards drivers who drive safely with the Circle of Honor. This includes drivers who have gone 25 years without an avoidable accident. The Circle now includes more than 25,000 drivers.
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