HORI and Hino Develop Professional Driver Training Simulators
Japanese manufacturer HORI is collaborating with Hino Motors to develop new driver simulators for professional training. The systems, designed for both heavy vehicles and standard cars, will be showcased at the Tokyo Game Show 2026.
Japanese game peripheral maker HORI announced on September 10th a partnership with automotive manufacturer Hino Motors to develop two new driver simulators for professional training purposes. The systems are scheduled to be unveiled and available for trial at the upcoming Tokyo Game Show 2026 (TGS2026).
The collaboration aims to address the growing demand for foreign logistics drivers in Japan. Hino Motors has provided significant input, including vehicle data and engine sounds, to enhance the realism of the simulations. The project also involves Hanyu Driving School in Saitama Prefecture and Tetra Shift, a startup specializing in driver education for foreign nationals.
The simulator lineup includes models for heavy vehicles like trucks, as well as standard cars. They can simulate a range of vehicles, including passenger cars, 4-ton medium-duty trucks, 10-ton heavy-duty trucks, trailers, and buses. The simulators feature a 40cm force feedback steering wheel with a ±900° rotation range.
HORI states that the simulators accurately replicate characteristics of large vehicles, such as inner wheel difference and overhang. Training modules follow Japanese driving instruction methods and include Japanese professional truck racing circuits with a ranking system. The systems support multiple languages, including Japanese, English, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Indonesian, catering to training needs from beginners to professional drivers.