Williams Technology Centre, Qatar (WTCQ) and the Qatar centre of UK’s Transport Research Laboratory (TRL), both located at the Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP), are to lead a joint initiative announced by their parent organisations.Williams F1 and TRL have signed a memorandum of understanding to co-operate on research regarding the application of advanced simulator-based vehicle training technologies with a view to helping improve road safety, reduce vehicle emissions and increase passenger comfort and safety.The two companies will collaborate on joint research, marketing and business development initiatives and use Williams F1’s simulator technology to help improve road safety, fuel efficiency and other aspects of driver behaviour in Qatar and internationally. Pioneered over the last decade for the advanced training of the world’s leading racing drivers, Williams F1’s simulator technology is now being developed for applications beyond the racetrack and, at the WTCQ, allows high-fidelity, advanced training to be conducted in a controlled environment. Using this approach has the benefit of “repetitiveness” to enable assessment and skills improvement to develop consistently. The partnership will use this technology to research, develop and validate driver training tools and the standards that govern the use of simulator technology for regular, commercial and emergency vehicles.TRL chief executive Sue Sharland said the collaboration with Williams F1 presents a tremendous opportunity to make major advances in the application of simulator technologies for training. “We are committed to delivering exciting and fresh innovation here in Qatar,” she asserted.On behalf of Williams F1, Alex Burns said, “TRL is globally respected in the field of transportation. Working with them through our respective centres in QSTP to research and apply Williams F1’s advanced simulator technologies beyond motorsport represents an excellent strategic fit.”QSTP executive chairman Dr Tidu Maini observed that the co-operation between Williams F1 and TRL is a good example of the rich environment for collaborative applied research provided by QSTP. “It is very encouraging to see our clients work together to develop new initiatives based on common interests.”TRL is a global transportation research and consultancy company with internationally-recognised centres of excellence providing world-class research, consultancy, testing and certification for all aspects of transport. The company has more than 75 years’ experience in its field and has notable expertise in the use of simulator technology to carry out research into driving behaviours and for conducting advanced driver training. TRL’s Qatar Centre is currently developing innovative road transport processes and technologies to help realise Qatar’s vision of economic growth.WTCQ is currently focused on two research and development projects. The first is the application of Williams’ advanced vehicle simulator technology to develop solutions for training and certification of regular, emergency and commercial drivers to improve road safety and fuel efficiency as well as other motorsports and entertainment. The second is development of high-power composite flywheel energy storage systems that improve the efficiency and reliability of rapid transportation and strengthen electricity grids to support increased renewable generation.