iRacing: ERS and DRS Systems Explained

The Mercedes-AMG W13 is one of the most competitive cars in iRacing, and its hybrid ERS and DRS system are two of the most important tools for maximizing its performance.

• Remember, you can join iRacing clicking here.

In this guide, you will learn how to use these systems effectively and how to integrate them into your race strategy. We will also give you some tips and tricks for getting the most out of each one.

So without further ado, let’s get started!

What is the ERS system?

The ERS (Energy Recovery System) is a hybrid system that uses excess energy from the braking and exhaust gases of internal combustion engines of Formula 1 cars to provide more power.

In the context of iRacing, the Mercedes-AMG W13 E is equipped with this hybrid system that recovers excess energy to provide more power during races. The energy is recovered through two modules, the motor energy recovery module (MGU-K) and the exhaust energy recovery module (MGU-H). The recovered energy is stored in a battery and then used to provide more power when needed.

In iRacing and the Mercedes-AMG W13, there are five ERS modes available in Formula 1 cars: no deploy and qual in qualifying, and attack, balanced and build in the race. No deploy means the system will not deploy any energy, while qual is the opposite mode and is used to deploy all of the battery’s energy during a flying lap. In the race, attack sets the state of charge to drain the battery to 0%, providing more energy for overtaking or defending against an overtake, although at a slower rate than qual. Build is the opposite mode and is used to recharge the battery to 100% during the lap. Balanced tries to keep the battery around 80% and charges and discharges evenly.

Formula 1 cars are equipped with a black box that allows you to adjust ERS modes and see the battery percentage and mode the system is in. In addition, the steering wheel also displays the battery percentage and current ERS mode.

What is the DRS system?

The DRS (Drag Reduction System) is a system that uses the top of the rear wing to reduce drag and increase straight line speed. The DRS is activated and deactivated using a button on the steering wheel of the car.

In practice and qualifying, the DRS is available at any time you are in a DRS zone. These zones are marked with signs along each track. However, in the race, the DRS is only available when you are within one second of a car in front of you as you cross a detection zone.

Detection zones are determined by a white line that crosses the surface just before a DRS zone. It is common to find yourself in a situation where you are still within one second of the car in front according to the relative black box but do not have access to the DRS. In this case, you have likely exited the detection zone.

Another way to know whether you have access to the DRS or not is to look at your steering wheel. At the top center of your steering wheel, you will notice a row of LED lights. On the left side of this row, the first four lights tell you your DRS status. If you see one green light in this section, it means you have entered a detection zone and the DRS is available.

• If you see two green lights, it means you have entered a DRS zone and the DRS is open.
• If you see three green lights, it means the DRS has been activated and is currently open.
• If you see no green lights, it means the DRS is not available or has been deactivated.

Using the ERS and DRS systems strategically

In qualifying, it is generally best to use the qual mode on your fastest lap to get the most out of the ERS system. In the race, it is generally best to leave the system in balanced mode as much as possible, as changing modes affects the way the system works. Attack mode is mostly useful for attempting a pass or defending against a pass, and with pit stops now a thing, you can use it on your in and out laps as well. Just be aware that at some point you will need to recharge the battery and will lose some pace because of that.

The DRS system can be used to gain an advantage on the straights or to defend against a pass. It is important to use the DRS wisely, as it can have a significant impact on tire wear and lap times. It is generally best to use the DRS in short bursts rather than leaving it open for an extended period of time.

See you on the track!