We are pleased to announce that three weeks ago, the K53 Simulator was awarded R100,000 in marketing credits. This support was granted through a startup development program run by an international technology firm. These credits are to be directed towards increasing the visibility of the simulator, with the goal of reaching more learner drivers across South Africa. A broader user base allows us, amongst others, to gather valuable feedback, which is crucial for making continuous Read more…
We are communicating a potential change we are currently contemplating for the Android version of our k53 simulator. We are running an experiment to switch the app’s color space from linear back to gamma on the Google Play Store and Huawei AppGallery versions. The motivation behind this experiment is focused purely on performance and wider accessibility. We are testing this change to see if it delivers a smoother, more stable experience for users on a Read more…
After over a year of the K53 Simulator launch, I am finally purchasing a game controller (or joystick) for a more nuanced testing. Until now, I have for the most part tested the PC version of the K53 Simulator using a keyboard. Well, while a keyboard works, any keen learner driver should soon realise that more sensitivity control (not natively supported by PC keyboard) becomes necessary, especial for Primary Vehicle Controls such as the steering Read more…
Updates recently pushed to the K53 Simulator version at Microsoft Store turned out to have some material issue. On one second last update attempt, I realised I had unsuspectingly disabled a number of game objects that play crucial roles in random startups (visually and programmatically). On my last update attempt intended to remedy this (shortly after the first), I later realised I pushed an update that included IAP functionality that should on work on mobile Read more…
It has been around a month or so now since it has gone live on Xbox. While one can play the K53 Simulator on a PC using just the keyboard and still reap solid fruits, a game controller (which comes standard on an Xbox) must offer an even better vehicle steering experience amongst other kindred controls – not to mention those who may already own steering gears such as the Logitech G920. While not completely Read more…
The Microsoft Store version of the K53 Simulator was updated yesterday. While this update had interesting features such as the added mini circle, it seems I may have forgotten to disable the use of In-App-Purchases (only necessary for the Google Play Store version). I expect to push another update not very long to try and correct this suspected possibility. My apologies in advance for any Windows user who may be inconvenienced by this.
We’ve switched to PayFast as a main payment gateway for the K53 Simulator. This integration aims to provide our users with a wider range of convenient payment methods. With PayFast, users can now choose from various options to access the K53 Simulator (online or our EXE). Please note that while subscriptions for the online simulator can currently only be processed via credit or debit card to facilitate recurring payments, our downloadable EXE version offers additional Read more…
Great news for aspiring South African drivers! The K53 Simulator, your go-to tool for mastering the K53 driving manual, is now also available online as a WebGL application! You now have the option to choose against the download and install version of the simulator. Yes, with free RAM of about 1.5GB, you can now practice for your South African driving test directly in your web browser. Whether you’re prepping for your road test or perfecting Read more…
The K53 yard test can be a major stumbling block for learner drivers in South Africa. Mastering manoeuvres like parallel parking, alley docking, and the likes of turning in road requires precision and confidence. Well, what if you could practice these crucial elements repeatedly, in a realistic environment, without the stress of damaging a vehicle or the watchful eye of an examiner? Enter the K53 Simulator, your inexpensive and readily available tool to potentially held Read more…
Learning to drive is a significant milestone, bringing with it a sense of freedom and independence. However, for many aspiring drivers in South Africa, the K53 driving test can feel like a daunting hurdle. The pressure of navigating real-world traffic while remembering all the rules and procedures can be overwhelming. What if there was a way to practice and build your confidence in a safe and controlled environment before even setting foot on a public Read more…
1. Enhanced Practice and Repetition The core value of the simulator is the ability to practice K53 procedures repeatedly without the limitations of a real car. Instructors can explain a maneuver—like the parallel park or three-point turn—and then the student can immediately go on the simulator to practice it dozens of times. This helps a student build muscle memory and confidence before they get behind the wheel, which saves both the student’s time and the instructor’s.
2. Focus on Mental and Procedural Fidelity While a real car truly provides a tactile experience, the simulator excels at reinforcing the K53’s procedural and mental aspects. The instructor can use the simulator to:
Drill the K53 observation sequences: Students can practice the “mirror-signal-blind spot” sequence until it becomes second nature, reducing errors during the actual test.
Reinforce rules of the road: The simulator can test a student’s knowledge of road signs, markings, and traffic light sequences in a dynamic, risk-free environment.
Practice defensive driving: Instructors can set up scenarios that teach students how to anticipate hazards, manage following distances, and react appropriately to unexpected events—all without the danger of a real-world mistake.
Your task is to drive from randomly picked starting points to randomly picked destinations, following the K53 Driving Manual.
Key:
The destination marker: This is where you ever drive to except for when your vehicle needs repairs.
The fuel/filling station marker: You can refill fuel when low. Turn off the engine first.
The auto-repairs marker: You cannot complete a drive test if your vehicle is showing a dashboard warning light. You need to have it serviced here first.
Already implemented K53 Driving Rules
Keep left and pass right
Indicate your intention to turn or enter the public road
Put on the safety belt when driving forward on the public road
Indicate to overtake (as well as returning to your lane)
Crossing a mini circle intersection
Crossing a four ways stop intersection
Crossing a 3 ways stop intersection
Crossing a level crossing
Crossing traffic lights controlled intersection
Braking and down shifting sequence before turning
Vehicle positioning before turning
Vehicle positioning (follow your path) when turning at an intersection
Crossing a yield intersection
Rear mirror, side mirror and blind spot (3 point observation) before indicating
Left blind spot, mirrors and right blind spot (5 point or 360 degrees observation) before taking of from a standstill.
Incline ‘Uncontrolled rollback’
Ensuring Neutral or Park is selected before starting a vehicle
Applying the parking brake when stationary for any amount of time
Unjustified coasting of the clutch
Turning off the engine before refilling fuel
Ensuring the signal/indicator is cancelled after a turn is completed
Yielding to oncoming traffic before turning right
Yard Test Mode
You are to get instructions before each manoeuvre starts. Time is allocated – within which you must complete the manoeuvre.
For PC, refer to the Keyboard or Gamepad controls.Kindly contact if you have any question – can be Whatsapp or email.
Use the arrow keys to steer, brake and accelerate
Use key I to turn the engine on and off
Use N to engage the Neutral gear
Use number keys 1 to 5 to engage respective gear (Or left Shift/Ctrl to shift up and down)
