In motorsport, simulators have become an invaluable tool for drivers looking to hone their skills, test car setups, and prepare for upcoming races. While iRacing offers a great platform for sim racing enthusiasts, the professional-grade simulators at Focus Driver Performance take simulation to an entirely different level. Here’s why.
One of the key differentiators of Focus Driver Performance simulators is that we have created our own custom car models in-house. Unlike generic models found in most home simulators, our models are crafted using real data and are rigorously tested by professional race car drivers. This process ensures that the car behaves exactly as you would expect from its real-world counterpart, allowing drivers to replicate their own setup down to the finest detail.
Flexibility for Different Drivers: Since the car models are custom-built, they can be adjusted to reflect the unique setups that different drivers are accustomed to. This level of personalisation is critical for drivers who want to translate their virtual practice directly to the track.
Engineering Capabilities: The accuracy of these models also opens the door for engineering applications. By inputting specific data, engineers can use the simulator to predict how changes to the car might perform under race conditions—something that’s simply not possible with off-the-shelf software like iRacing.
At Focus Driver Performance, all of our track models are also created in-house using proprietary LiDAR data. This technology captures every bump, curb, and surface variation with millimetre precision, creating a track experience that is as close to reality as possible.
Real-Time Updates: Because our track models are updated continuously, they reflect the current condition of the track, including recent resurfacing or any new changes. This is a significant advantage over iRacing, where updates can be delayed, and not all tracks are covered.
Comprehensive Track Library: Focus Driver Performance boasts models for every race track in Australia—an unmatched resource for drivers competing in national series. Where as iRacing only has four current Australian tracks at the moment (and only two more on the way at the moment).
One of the standout features of Focus Driver Performance simulators is their ability to replicate real-world track conditions and tyre wear.
Track Evolution: Drivers can practice on evolving track surfaces, simulating the rubbering-in process on a street circuit or changing grip levels during a wet race.
Race and Qualifying Simulations: The simulators can also mimic long race runs, where fuel conservation and tyre degradation become critical, or set up qualifying scenarios with fresh tyres and low fuel loads.
To truly replicate the experience of being behind the wheel, Focus Driver Performance simulators use high-end Pro-Sim hardware that delivers unparalleled realism.
Pedals and Shifters: The pedals in our simulators offer adjustable forces that can replicate the feel of ABS and brake boosters, and they can be configured to match any car’s setup. The shifters—whether H-pattern, paddle, or sequential—are all professional-grade, ensuring that every shift feels just like it would in a real car.
Steering and G-Belts: The direct drive steering system, equipped with specialised firmware, delivers precise feedback, allowing drivers to feel every nuance of the car’s handling. The newly introduced G-belts simulate the physical forces experienced in fast corners or under hard braking, adding to the sensation of speed and immersion.
Tactile Feedback: Shakers integrated into the simulator provide tactile sensations for bumps, gear changes, and even bottoming out—elements that are crucial for developing a driver’s sense of the car’s limits.
Focus Driver Performance takes data analysis to the next level by integrating real Motec data from your race car into the simulator.
Real-Time Feedback: The live telemetry system allows coaches to monitor and provide instant feedback during a session. Additionally, the intercom system facilitates clear communication between the driver and coach.
Video Analysis: Using Vbox software, drivers can compare their laps visually against reference laps, offering a powerful tool for refining driving techniques.
Focus Driver Performance's coaching is where our simulators really come into their own. All of our coaches are seasoned professionals who have competed and won at national or international levels. This experience is critical in providing the most effective training possible.
Preventing Bad Habits: With professional oversight, drivers avoid developing bad habits that can hinder their performance on track.
Holistic Training: Beyond driving skills, the simulators are used for pressure testing and training, integrating gym workouts and simulator sessions. This holistic approach ensures drivers are prepared both mentally and physically for the demands of racing.
Hybrid Performance Psychology: Led by Kotryna, this unique program uses simulators to work on mental toughness and vision, ensuring that drivers are not only fast but also resilient.
A standout feature at Focus Driver Performance is the use of eye-tracking technology. By driving with eye-tracking glasses, drivers can assess and improve their vision, a critical component in racing.
Vision Comparison: This tool allows drivers to compare their eye movements and focus points against those of professional drivers, providing insights that can lead to significant performance improvements.
While iRacing provides an accessible platform for sim racing at home, the simulators at Focus Driver Performance offer a level of realism, precision, and professional insight that is unmatched.