Racing Unleashed joins forces with McLaren Racing to launch motion simulator

Swiss sim racing hardware manufacturer Racing Unleashed has joined forces with McLaren Racing to launch a state-of-the-art motion simulator.

Developed by the manufacturer and the motorsport marque, the simulator is described as a ‘breakthrough in racing simulation technology.’

According to a press release, the motion simulator on sale provides users ‘an unparalleled racing experience for sim racers and McLaren Racing enthusiasts.’

Developed in Maranello, Italy, at Racing Unleashed’s facility, the simulator features a carbon fibre chassis, a replica steering wheel from a McLaren Formula One car, and a Three Degrees of Freedom Motion (3DOF) system providing greater immersion.

The motorsport marque is no stranger to the world of sim racing, having operated a variety of events and teams since 2017. In May, former F1 Esports champion Lucas Blakeley announced his departure from the team after three seasons.

“This partnership brings together the best of both worlds — McLaren Racing’s motorsport excellence and our cutting-edge simulation technology — to create a truly game-changing product for sim racers and motorsport enthusiasts alike,” said Florian Hürlimann, Chief Technical Officer of Racing Unleashed.

Sim racing has struggled to recreate the same levels of immersion generated through real-world motorsport. With Racing Unleashed collaborating with engineers from McLaren Racing, its motion simulator looks to set a new bar for realism in virtual racing.

After experiencing a boom period in 2020, sim racing has continued to attract a range of new and existing hardware manufacturers to bolster its range of products. This has resulted in the development of a healthy ecosystem of peripherals.

“It’s an exciting proposition to be replicating our race cars for the sim space and give users an extremely accurate representation of what it is like to drive the real thing,” added Matt Dennington, Co-Chief Commercial Officer at McLaren Racing.