Immersive simulator drives research at University of Alabama’s TRIP lab

By: Jessica Nelson

At the Translational Research Injury Prevention (TRIP) Laboratory, a research participant opens the door of a Mercedes GLE 63S AMG and slides into the driver’s seat. She buckles her seatbelt, starts the car and then the virtual experience begins.

The car, donated to the University of Alabama by Mercedes-Benz U.S. International earlier this year, is complete with everything except the engine. It is the centerpiece of a driving simulator capable of powerful, data-driven research on human behavior and driving.

“The interior is fully intact,” said Despina Stavrinos, Ph.D., director of UA’s Institute for Social Science Research. “They see the steering wheel and instrument panel, and everything is where they expect it to be because it’s a real vehicle.”

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