The ADAC SIM Racing Expo 2024 in Dortmund kicked off with a bang, showcasing the latest innovations from the top brands in the Sim Racing industry.
After months of legal challenges and corporate struggles, Fanatec returned to the spotlight in partnership with Corsair, introducing a lineup of new products for 2025.
Let’s dive into the details of these new products and how they could shape the future of the brand.
Fanatec Handbrake ClubSport V2
One of the most anticipated reveals at the Expo was the Fanatec Handbrake ClubSport V2, an upgrade the Sim Racing community had been eagerly awaiting for quite some time.
The differences between the ClubSport V2 and its predecessor are significant. Not only does the new model offer superior build quality, but the addition of load cell technology is a game changer. This upgrade places the V2 alongside the most premium options available today.
Unfortunately, there is still some uncertainty about the release date and price, as Fanatec hasn’t provided specific details. Fans will have to wait for more information, but it’s clear this is a major step forward for the company.
Fanatec’s New Cockpit
Another exciting reveal from Fanatec was their new Sim Racing cockpit, which has an interesting backstory. Initially a Corsair project, the design has now been handed over to Fanatec, with the product undergoing a rebrand and redesign.
Design Overview:
The cockpit features 50mm steel tubing with an elegant white finish, though it is also available in black. The steel tube construction gives it a solid, durable frame, and the cockpit allows for extensive adjustments, making it easier to tailor the setup to your personal preferences.
One of the standout aspects of this cockpit is its integration with Elgato products—another brand under Corsair’s umbrella. This makes the cockpit particularly appealing for content creators who need to incorporate lighting, a Stream Deck, or other accessories into their racing rig.
Fanatec Bentley Wheel
Perhaps the most impressive reveal of the Expo was the Fanatec Bentley Continental GT3 Wheel, which promises to set a new standard for realism in Sim Racing. Developed in collaboration with Bentley Motors, this wheel is a true masterpiece, designed to replicate the exact feel of the Bentley Continental GT3 Pikes Peak race car.
Key Features:
- 310mm Diameter: The wheel’s size is ideal for realistic racing experiences, offering the same feel as the steering wheel in Bentley’s GT3 race car.
- 3.4-Inch Round Display: A standout feature, the round, self-leveling display provides real-time information during races, adding a new layer of immersion.
- High-End Materials: Fanatec has used premium materials such as magnesium for the core, 5mm carbon fiber panels, and Alcantara grips to ensure the wheel feels as authentic as possible.
- Advanced Paddle Shifters: CNC-machined aluminum paddle shifters with magnetic technology offer precise gear changes, enhancing the performance for competitive racers.
Priced at $2000, it’s a luxury item for serious Sim racers, but given the features and attention to detail, it’s clear that Fanatec has created a product worth the investment.
Pricing and Availability
- Fanatec EU: Fanatec Podium Steering Wheel Bentley GT3 (€1999.95)
- Fanates US: Fanatec Podium Steering Wheel Bentley GT3 ($1999.95)
- Fanatec AUS: Fanatec Podium Steering Wheel Bentley GT3 ($3,399.95)
Fanatec Porsche Vision Gran Turismo Elite Wheel
The final major reveal from Fanatec was the Porsche Vision Gran Turismo Elite Wheel, another collaboration that blends cutting-edge design with high-performance features.
This wheel is based on the Porsche Vision Gran Turismo concept from Gran Turismo 7, and it introduces several new features that make it stand out.
Key Features:
- Porsche Horn Button: In a nod to realism, this wheel comes equipped with a central horn button, a feature that SIM racers have been asking for to make their virtual experience feel even more authentic.
- Four Rotary Encoders: With four rotary encoders, two positioned on the lower part of the wheel and two higher up, users can make quick adjustments to settings like brake bias, without taking their hands off the wheel.
- Magnetic Paddle Shifters: Though the paddles may look plasticky, they are actually magnetic, providing a crisp, precise feel when shifting.
Rumors and Strategic Moves: Potential Short- and Medium-Term Changes
Improved Customer Service
As mentioned earlier, one of the key areas where CORSAIR could make an immediate impact is customer support. This could involve streamlining response times and improving the handling of post-sales issues.
Given the volume of recent complaints regarding shipping and service, it’s likely that CORSAIR will prioritize restructuring this department to better meet customer needs.
More Frequent Product Launches
In recent years, Fanatec has not released many groundbreaking products in the realms of racing wheels, pedals, or cockpits. With CORSAIR’s backing, we might see a quicker pace of new product launches, driven by CORSAIR’s ability to fund extensive research and development.
This could lead to the introduction of more affordable peripherals for beginners as well as high-end systems for professional simulators.
Greater Integration with the CORSAIR Ecosystem
CORSAIR has a well-developed ecosystem of gaming peripherals, including mice, keyboards, and headsets. We could see deeper integration between Fanatec’s Sim Racing products and CORSAIR’s software, such as iCUE, which would allow for advanced customization of Fanatec peripherals within the broader CORSAIR ecosystem.
See you on the track!
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