RICHMOND, Va. James River Bus Lines has become the first coach operator to purchase the free-standing coach driving simulator marketed by Motor Coach Industries.

The $200,000-plus simulator will be used to supplement the six-week driver training programs of James River Bus and its sister company, Carey Transportation.

"We see our simulator as lowering our risk," said James River President Stephen Story. "If something does happen out on the road, our drivers will be under control."

The simulator, which assesses driver performance and provides essential driver training in a safe environment, was developed by GE Driver Development, which was purchased by MPRI of Alexandria, Va. MPRI adapted the trainer for MCI-model coaches and motorcoach drivers.

The MCI-MPRI simulator, called the TranSimVS IV, is designed to help operators reduce on-road training time, thereby lowering fuel costs and fleet wear while advancing drivers skill.

MCI installed one of the trainers on board a converted J4500-model shell. The shell serves as a mobile classroom and marketing platform that travels to tradeshows and is available for rent by operators of MCI coaches.

James River Bus Lines leased the mobile classroom before deciding to purchase a simulator of its own. Afterward, it worked with MPRI to customize the unit for its specific needs, including installing additional software that simulates other James River vehicles.

The simulator purchased by the coach company is mounted on a trailer that can be moved to any of James Rivers three locations.

James River operates a fleet of 88 vehicles that includes 40 motorcoaches.

Story plans to use the simulator to not only improve safety but also to reinforce fuel-efficient driving practices. A lesson on the simulator demonstrates how quick starts, abrupt stops and speeding adversely impacts fuel economy. Smooth acceleration and deceleration practiced on the simulator can result in potential fuel cost savings of 25 cents per gallon.

More information about the simulator is available from MCI fleet support managers.