First, calculate the loss in kinetic energy (KE):

\(\text{KE loss} = \frac{1}{2} \times 12000 \times (24^2 - 16^2) = 3000000 \text{ J}\).

Next, calculate the gain in potential energy (PE):

\(\text{PE gain} = 12000 \times 9.8 \times 25 = 2940000 \text{ J}\).

The work done (WD) against resistance is:

\(\text{WD against resistance} = 7500 \times 500 = 3750000 \text{ J}\).

The work done by the driving force (DF) is given by:

\(\text{WD by DF} = \text{PE gain} - \text{KE loss} + \text{WD against resistance}\).

\(\text{WD by DF} = 2940000 - 3000000 + 3750000 = 3690000 \text{ J}\).

The driving force is then:

\(\text{Driving force} = \frac{3690000}{500} = 9660 \text{ N}\).