The Road Haulage Association (RHA) has introduced a fully electric simulator van as part of its efforts to help operators adapt to the shift towards electric vehicle fleets. The new simulator was revealed at the Fowler Welch Driver of the Year, held at Donington Park on April 28 and will operate alongside the organisation’s existing diesel simulator, reflecting the mixed fleets many businesses currently rely on as they transition between technologies.
According to the RHA, the addition of an electric simulator is intended to mirror real-world conditions, where operators are balancing both conventional and electric vehicles. Richard Smith, managing director of the RHA, said: “We’ve introduced it alongside our existing diesel simulator because the reality is simple: operators are managing both worlds right now. And if we're serious about supporting them, we need to reflect that.
Using the simulator, whether diesel or electric, gives people a genuine feel for the environment drivers operate in every day. And that matters because better understanding leads to better decisions.”
The launch event gave drivers, fleet managers and senior leaders the opportunity to try the simulator in a practical setting, helping them better understand the challenges faced on the road and the implications of switching to electric vehicles.
Smith added: “It’s about building understanding of driver challenges and starting honest conversations about what the shift to EV means in practice. We'll be taking the van out over the coming months, and sharing what we learn along the way.”
The RHA plans to take the simulator on the road in the coming months, using it as a tool to gather insights and support businesses as they navigate the transition to lower-emission transport.