This paper describes the history and work of TRL (Transport Research Laboratory), the UK's leading independent organisation for international transport research, consultancy, advice and testing. Particularly since privatisation in 1996, TRL has cooperated closely with other European research institutes in collaborative transport projects. This is illustrated by the European project TREE (Transport Research Equipment in Europe). TRL works throughout the developing world with all the major fund agencies to improve transport operations and systems. TRL contributes widely to international road safety strategies. TRL has traditionally conducted research on road construction and the performance of structures including bridges and tunnels. Increased emphasis is being placed on sustainability and environmental protection. Examples include controlling noise and exhaust emissions and recycling materials in road construction. TRL advises on all aspects of transportation, with expertise in traffic management, multi-modal transport modelling, intelligent transport systems, logistics and air transport. Two key areas of research are congestion and road user charging. TRL's new facilities house a Simulator Training and Research (STAR) Centre which houses TRL's Driving Simulator and TRUCKSIM, the UK's first full mission Truck Driver Training Simulator. TRL is a partner in the European Road Assessment Programme (EuroRAP) and conducts research into vehicle crashworthiness as part of the EuroNCAP programme.
Samenvatting