GB Railfreight (GBRf) has become one of the first UK freight operators to introduce spatial computing technology for immersive rail training, as part of preparations for the introduction of its new Class 99 locomotives.
The company has entered a three-year partnership with 3D presentation platform JigSpace, with the technology set to be introduced from March 2026.
Using Apple Vision Pro headsets, the new training programme will allow crew to explore a fully interactive, true-to-scale digital version of the Class 99 locomotive cab and key components before they step inside a real train.
Through a dedicated module within the JigSpace app, trainees will be able to complete a virtual walk-around of both the interior and exterior, helping them familiarise themselves with controls, systems and safety-critical features in advance of practical training.
GBRf expects the approach to reduce the need for trainees to travel to its Peterborough Training School, generating savings of more than £500,000 over two years while maintaining the company’s standards for safety and competence.
James Levin, Sales Director at JigSpace, said:
“Partnering with the world’s most innovative operators to bring spatial computing into real operational environments isn’t about experimentation; it’s about deploying it now in ways that strengthen entire organisations and move industries forward. GB Railfreight is setting a new standard for immersive training, building on its already impressive track record in safety, training excellence and operational standards.”
Preparing crews for next-generation freight locomotives
The programme will initially focus on preparing crews for the arrival of Class 99 locomotives, giving drivers and operational staff early exposure to the design and layout of the new fleet before they enter service.
By enabling users to interact with components in a 360-degree virtual environment, the technology aims to deepen understanding of locomotive systems and accelerate learning during the early stages of training.
Future phases of the programme will expand the platform’s capabilities to include detailed operational procedures, such as train preparation routines and component-specific training modules.
David Golding, Safety and Sustainability Director at GB Railfreight, said:
“Apple Vision Pro allows our teams to interact with locomotive components from anywhere in the country with unprecedented realism. Not only will it save hundreds of prospective train crew travelling to our HQ in Peterborough, but it also gives them a level of access and detail we’ve never been able to offer before, allowing a deep dive into both the cab and key components. I’m confident that spatial computing marks the beginning of a very exciting partnership with JigSpace.”
The initiative reflects a wider shift across the rail sector towards digital and immersive learning technologies, helping operators build workforce capability while improving accessibility and efficiency in training delivery.
