UPS to train delivery drivers using VR

UPS has announced its embrace of virtual reality, with the company rolling out its own training software for employees using the HTC Vive at its platform.

The VR training ground will reproduce real life scenarios and hazards that drivers will have to deal with on a daily basis, dedicated to ensuring UPS staff are well versed before they get behind the wheel of a truck.

“Virtual reality offers a big technological leap in the realm of driver safety training,” Chief Information and Engineering Officer Juan Perez said.

“VR creates a hyper-realistic streetscape that will dazzle even the youngest of our drivers whose previous exposure to the technology was through video games.”

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The tailor-made hazard perception test lasts about three to six minutes, with the idea of getting drivers used to making mistakes and learning from them on the system as opposed to the real world.

"It's a game-changer for training,” said UPS Training and Development Manager Laura Collings when speaking to CNN.

"Nothing can really replace real-world training, but virtual reality complements it in a way that engages our employees."