Taiwan Railways Invests NT$200 Million in 50 New Train Driving Simulators, Installation by August

(Central News Agency, Taipei, June 5) To improve operational safety and training quality, Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA) is spending NT$200 million to purchase 50 new driving simulators for EMU900 and EMU3000 electric multiple units. Installation is expected to be completed by August 2025, with operations starting in September or October. Due to the swappable panel design, TRA also plans to purchase additional panels for the Puyuma Express and EMU800 series.

TRA's old driving simulators are currently only located in Qidu, Taipei, and Hualien. Lin Yu-lung, Deputy Director of TRA's Rolling Stock Department, stated at a press conference today that because there is only one simulator at each location, they must be shared by multiple trainees, limiting usage time and making it difficult to achieve the desired training outcomes.

TRA stated that the NT$200 million procurement of 50 new simulators for EMU900 and EMU3000 trains was awarded to Spain's Lander company. The next-generation simulators cover TRA's entire circular rail network, use 3D modeling, and can be updated based on existing route changes to enhance skills in driving, route familiarization, and fault troubleshooting.

Lin pointed out that the new simulators consist of an instructor station and a trainee station. The highlight is that the trainee station is modular with a swappable panel, allowing instructors to choose between EMU900 and EMU3000 panels based on training needs.

Lin mentioned another feature: the new system can simulate various situations encountered on different routes, such as incorrect stopping positions or speeding, which cannot be tested during regular passenger service.

The new system also includes a vehicle fault troubleshooting training function. Instructors can set various real-world fault scenarios at the instructor station. Trainees can then use a 'virtual panel' on the side of the trainee station to identify the corresponding switches or equipment for troubleshooting, simulating real accident response procedures to strengthen drivers' judgment and response capabilities.

Lin said that 10 rolling stock depots and the training center will receive the new simulators. Installation is scheduled for completion in August, with simultaneous activation in September or October. TRA also plans to purchase driving panels for the Puyuma Express and EMU800 series.

TRA currently has approximately 1,300 drivers, with about 200 in training. Lin noted that for in-service driver retraining, sessions are held twice a year (first and second half), each lasting 8 hours.

TRA stated that if a driver fails the retraining, they will be allowed a retest. If they fail again, it is equivalent to failing the exam, and they will not be certified. Future driving training regulations will be updated and may reference practices from other rail operators. (Editor: Kuan Chung-wei) 1150605