Virdrive was founded with a clear mission: to revolutionize emergency response training. Born from a passion for technology and a deep commitment to improving safety, our journey began with a vision to create realistic, risk-free driving simulators. Over the years, we’ve developed cutting-edge solutions that empower emergency services across the UK. Our team, driven by innovation and collaboration, has transformed how first responders train, enabling them to prepare for the most challenging real-world situations. Today, Virdrive is proud to lead the way in simulation technology, providing our partners with tools that save lives and protect communities.
We design and build bespoke driving simulators and develop custom software tailored specifically for emergency services providers across the UK. Our solutions replicate real-world driving conditions to help responders train for hazardous scenarios without the risks associated with live vehicle training.
By focusing on cost reduction and environmental sustainability, Virdrive also supports organizations in achieving their net-zero targets while minimizing expenses related to fuel, maintenance, and accident damage.
Sean Wainwright brings a wealth of expertise, innovation, and passion to VirDrive, drawing on over 30 years of distinguished service as a police officer with Northumbria Police and his entrepreneurial experience in the entertainment industry. As the founder of VirDrive, Sean combines his deep understanding of emergency response driving with cutting-edge technology to revolutionise driver training for the UK’s emergency services.
During his three-decade career with Northumbria Police (1992–2022), Sean served in various roles, gaining invaluable firsthand experience in high-pressure situations. As a certified police advanced driver, he developed exceptional skills in handling challenging driving scenarios, from navigating emergency response routes to managing complex road conditions. This extensive background gave Sean a unique insight into the critical importance of safe, effective driver training for emergency responders.
In addition to his law enforcement career, Sean founded Racing Sims North East, an entertainment business specializing in hiring out racing simulators for events. This venture allowed him to explore the potential of simulation technology to create immersive, engaging experiences. It was here that Sean first recognized how simulators could be adapted to meet the specific needs of emergency services, offering a safe and cost-effective way to train drivers for real-world scenarios.
Combining his expertise as an advanced police driver with his entrepreneurial experience in simulation technology, Sean launched VirDrive to address a critical gap in emergency responder training. His vision was clear: to use technology in innovative ways to enhance safety, reduce risks, and minimise costs and environmental impact for emergency services.
Under Sean’s leadership, VirDrive designs and builds bespoke driving simulators tailored to the unique requirements of police, fire, and ambulance services. By blending decades of operational experience with state-of-the-art simulation software, Sean ensures that VirDrive delivers solutions that are both practical and transformative. His commitment to safety, innovation, and sustainability is at the heart of everything VirDrive does.
Sean Wainwright’s journey from police officer to entrepreneur is a testament to his dedication to improving the lives of those who serve on the front lines. Through VirDrive, he continues to make a meaningful impact by helping emergency responders train smarter, safer, and more effectively than ever before.
Driving Instructor
Driving Instructor
Driving Instructor
Driving Instructor
