INTRODUCTION

We deliver professional driver training services that meet the rigorous testing standards of the automotive industry. Since 2006, our specialized programs have served OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, testing companies, and proving grounds worldwide.

Our training programs are designed exclusively for professional test drivers, vehicle dynamics engineers, and technical personnel involved in vehicle development and testing. With over 1,200 courses delivered and 7,500+ professionals trained across five countries, we provide industry-relevant training tailored to corporate needs, ensuring your team masters the skills required for subjective vehicle evaluation and objective testing in accordance with international standards.

THE Applus+ SOLUTION

Our driving training programs

Passenger Car Training

Our flagship program offers a progressive pathway from basic to expert level, designed for engineers and test drivers seeking to develop precise vehicle control and vehicle testing skills. Since 2006, we have refined our methodology to provide comprehensive training that covers everything from fundamental driving awareness to high-performance racetrack maneuvers.

The program consists of 5 progressive levels (D, C2, C1, B, A) that take participants from foundational skills through to mastery. Each level builds upon the previous one, ensuring consistent skill development and confidence behind the wheel. Training includes theoretical knowledge combined with extensive practical sessions on our specialized test tracks, covering RWD, FWD, and AWD vehicle dynamics.

Ideal for: Vehicle dynamics engineers, test drivers, R&D personnel, subjective evaluation specialists
Levels available:

  • D Level - Basic Training – Up to 8 pax (1 day)
  • C2 Level - Elementary Training – Up to 8 pax (2 days)
  • C1 Level - Intermediate Training – Up to 6 pax (2 days)
  • B Level - Advanced Training – Up to 4 pax (3 days)
  • A Level - Expert/Master Training – Up to 4 pax (3 days)

Special programs: Refresher courses for maintaining certification, Training for Trainers programs
Locations: Spain (full programme), China, Mexico, India, Brazil (selected levels).

Commercial Vehicle Training

Specialized training programs for rigid trucks, articulated vehicles, and light trailers, developed since 2010 to address the unique challenges of commercial vehicle testing. Our courses focus on stability fundamentals, safety protocols, and vehicle control in challenging conditions including low-friction (low-μ) surfaces, emergency braking scenarios, and lateral stability management.

Training combines theoretical understanding of commercial vehicle dynamics with practical exercises on our dedicated test tracks, including dynamic platforms designed specifically for heavy vehicle testing. Participants learn professional techniques for handling rigid and articulated vehicles in various conditions, ensuring safe and effective testing procedures.

Vehicle types:

  • Rigid Trucks - VIR1 - Basic & VIR2 – Advanced (1 day each level)
  • Articulated Vehicles - VIA1 - Basic & VIA2 – Advanced (1 day each level)

Recommended participants: 4 per session
Locations: Spain (full programme), China (selected levels).

Motorcycle Training

Comprehensive motorcycle training program developed since 2012, covering emergency braking, trajectory tracing, and advanced vehicle control techniques. Our courses cater to both light motorcycles (under 125cc) and standard motorcycles, providing progressive skill development tailored to the specific dynamics of two-wheeled vehicles.

Training includes practical exercises on specialized tracks designed for motorcycle testing, with expert instructors providing individualized feedback to enhance your control and confidence. Refresher courses are available to maintain and update your skills.

Levels available:

  • M1 Level - Basic <125cc (1 day)
  • M2 Level - Basic >125cc (1 day)
  • M3 Level – Advanced >125cc (1 day)

Training focus: Emergency braking techniques, precise trajectory tracing, vehicle control development, safety protocols
Locations: Spain (full programme), China (selected levels).
Refreshment courses: Available for all levels

Winter Driving Training

Master the art of driving on ice and snow at Proving Ground in Sweden or on a circuit in Andorra. This intensive program teaches essential techniques for controlling vehicles in extreme winter conditions, covering RWD, FWD, and AWD systems.

Participants learn load transfer techniques, engine power management for cornering, and the specific characteristics of different drivetrain configurations on low-friction surfaces. The program provides invaluable experience for engineers and test drivers working on winter vehicle development or cold-weather testing programs.

Levels available:

  • W1 Level - Basic Winter Training (1 day)
  • W2 Level - Advanced Winter Training (2 days)

Training focus: Ice and snow driving principles, RWD/FWD/AWD control techniques, load transfer mastery, cornering with engine power, understanding AWD systems
Location: Proving Ground, Sweden/ Circuit, Andorra
Participants: 2-6 per session

Subjective Evaluation Training

Learn the sophisticated evaluation processes used by expert test engineers in vehicle R&D departments. This customizable program teaches you how to identify optimal chassis configurations, understand the complex interactions between suspension components, and develop the refined sensitivity required for professional subjective vehicle assessment.

Training is tailored to your organization's specific focus areas and vehicle types, providing practical skills that directly translate to improved testing efficiency and quality in your development programs.

Program features:

  • Customizable content based on your requirements
  • Process-focused methodology used in professional R&D
  • Chassis configuration optimization techniques
  • Suspension component interaction analysis

Ideal for: R&D engineers, vehicle dynamics specialists, chassis development teams

À La Carte Training

Every organization has unique training needs. Our à la carte service allows you to design a fully customized training program tailored to your specific vehicles, specialty areas, desired skill levels, and business objectives.

Whether you need focused training on particular vehicle characteristics, specific test procedures, or specialized driving conditions, our expert team will work with you to develop the ideal program. This flexibility ensures your investment delivers maximum value aligned with your exact requirements.

Fully customizable:

  • Specific vehicle types and models
  • Focused specialty areas
  • Desired skill levels and outcomes
  • Timeline and location preferences

Certifications, standards & validations

We are an EU-certified facility for professional driver examination and hold SAE J3300 Driving Skills Standard Assessment certification. As a certified official center, we have our own certifier and examiner for candidates, as well as the authority to certify examiners, other sites, and vehicles. This ensures our training meets and exceeds the highest international standards required by leading automotive manufacturers and testing organizations worldwide.

Our C-Level Driver Assessment is an independently validated programme with mutual licence recognition. It has been validated by the German Working Group of Driver Instructors and is recognised by selected proving grounds. The certification may also qualify drivers to operate specific test vehicles within joint OEM development projects.

Our resources

World-Class Fleet
Our complete vehicle fleet includes rear-wheel drive, front-wheel drive, and all-wheel drive passenger cars, high-performance vehicles, race cars, commercial trucks, articulated vehicles, and motorcycles. All vehicles are maintained to the highest standards and equipped for professional testing and training.

Advanced Technology
State-of-the-art static and dynamic driving simulators featuring virtual recreations of renowned tracks including IDIADA Proving Ground, Nürburgring, and Mugello. These simulators complement on-track training with safe, controlled environment practice.

Global Infrastructure
Access to world-class proving grounds across Spain, China, Mexico, India, and Sweden, each equipped with specialized test tracks including dry handling circuits, high-speed tracks, dynamic platforms, skid pads, and low-friction surfaces.

Expert Instructors
Our team of certified instructors brings decades of combined experience in professional vehicle testing and driver training, ensuring you receive the highest quality instruction and feedback.

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