For those unfortunate enough to sustain serious spinal injuries following an accident, the process of physical rehabilitation can prove to be a long journey. In addition to this, there is also the intense psychological stress that one experiences, especially when one is going to be behind the wheel of a car again.
The award-winning simracing simulator created by Ford of Spain, Fundación ONCE and Team Fordzilla, and developed by Hi-Speed Simulators, is being used to help patients at the National Hospital for Paraplegics in Toledo, Spain overcome both of these obstacles.
Applying the same technologies used by Ford Adapta in its adapted vehicles aimed at enhancing the mobility of people with disabilities, the simracing simulator allows patients to drive safely on virtual roads. This helps them not only reacquaint themselves with the feel of driving, but also learn to use the custom controls.
For example, the steering wheel with the characteristic rings that provide the ability to accelerate and decelerate without pedals, is an unknown experience for most drivers. Giving them the opportunity to try this solution in a safe virtual space before driving in the real world can build confidence and help users begin to imagine themselves behind the wheel again.
The simulator has now become a permanent fixture at the National Paraplegic Hospital, where it will continue to help people with spinal injuries prepare both physically and psychologically and start thinking about getting back on the road again.
Mustang Mach-E Ford Adapta
Earlier this year, Jesús Alonso, president and CEO of Ford Spain, presented the Mustang Mach-E Ford Adapta, Ford’s first 100% electric vehicle designed for people with reduced mobility, at the Toledo Hospital. The same event also saw the Ford Adapta simulator introduced to residents for the first time, with virtual driving and simracing guidance from Team Fordzilla’s José Iglesias. The controls used in the simulator are the same as those found in the custom Mustang Mach-E, and even the on-screen dashboard of the virtual environment is the same as that of Ford’s electric SUV.
National Hospital for Paraplegics
Toledo National Hospital for Paraplegics (HNP) was established in 1974 and serves as a national reference center for specialized care, research and continuing education in matters related to spinal cord injuries. In addition to treatment, the hospital also develops initiatives and projects aimed at normalizing the lives of people with disabilities – from sports to full integration into social, professional and family life.
Comments
“We are very proud of this collaboration with the Hospital of Toledo and Fundación ONCE. Surely many of the injured, when they leave here, will be better prepared mentally and physically to drive again thanks to this new Ford Adapta technology applied to simracing.”
Jesús Alonso, President & CEO, Ford Spain
“We’ve always been on the side of people with disabilities before and after, thanks to the Ford Adapta. Now, we can also help during the restoration process with this custom simulator from Team Fordzilla.”
José Iglesias, Team Fordzilla
Links
• YouTube: https://youtu.be/rDuXs4qvlSo
• Related blogs:
o Simulator Award:https://fordeurope.blogspot.com/2023/02/team-fordzilla-adapted-simulator-wins-aster-award.html
o Adapted Mustang Mach-E: https://fordeurope.blogspot.com/2022/12/ford-adapta-mustang-mach-e-spain.html
Source: Skai
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