Simulation Enters a New Dimension
In professional racing, every decision counts. Be it energy
management in Formula E, tire degradation in endurance rac-
ing, or overtaking strategy in a sprint race – the key to success
lies in preparation. For years, top teams have relied on state-
of-the-art Driver-in-the-Loop simulators to rehearse scenarios
and optimize setups. But until recently, these simulators were
limited to single-car operation. Drivers prepared alone, not as
part of the complex dynamics of a real race.
AVL RACETECH has now taken simulation to the next level.
By connecting multiple simulators into a single virtual envi-
ronment. This multi-sim approach enables teams to train in
realistic race traffic, refine energy usage in wheel-to-wheel sce-
narios, and practice collaborative strategy – all without turning
a wheel on the actual circuit.
For this breakthrough, AVL RACETECH teamed up with two key
partners: Ansible Motion, a UK-based specialist for advanced
driving simulators, and Penske Autosport Formula E, one of the
leading teams in the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship.
Ansible Motion provided the hardware expertise with its high-per-
formance simulators, while Penske Autosport Formula E contrib-
uted racing know-how and direct application in Formula E.
High-End Hardware for Realistic Race Conditions
At the heart of the new facility is Ansible Motion’s Delta S3
Driver-in-the-Loop simulator, featuring full dynamics, 48K
image rendering, a 360-degree wrap-around screen, and a
genuine Formula E cockpit. Four additional Theta Seat Sport
simulators expand the setup into a five-simulator environment.
These compact yet powerful simulators include integrated
motorsport controls, high-torque steering feedback, and a
modular plinth-based design that can be scaled and upgraded
with options such as multi-function steering wheels, active
pedal, steering loading, harness tensioning, and helmet force
simulation. Together, they allow up to five drivers to interact
simultaneously in highly immersive conditions, with effects
like slipstreaming and turbulent air faithfully reproduced in real
time.
AVL VSM™ RACE as the Connecting Element
AVL’s proven VSM™ RACE software provides the link between
the individual simulations. Designed as a fully dynamic vehicle
dynamics simulation tool, it can model every detail of the race
car and predict the effect of setup or ambient condition chang-
es on lap time, handling, stability, tire energy, and efficiency.
Crucially, the software architecture allows multiple Driver-in-
the-Loop simulators to run in one shared environment without
compromising model fidelity. This enables drivers to interact
with each other just as they would on the track. Slipstreaming,
side-by-side battles, safety car situations, or qualifying traffic –
all can be realistically recreated.
Energy Management as a Game Changer
Since energy management and race strategy are decisive in
Formula E, the benefits for Penske Autosport Formula E are
clear. With AVL’s software and the multi-sim setup, the team
can rehearse energy-saving tactics under realistic race condi-
tions. Drivers test how to defend or attack while staying within
consumption limits, while engineers gain detailed insights into
harvesting and deployment strategies in true multi-car traffic.
The result is a far closer approximation to real racing, where
rather than being static, opponents make their own moves.
AVL RACETECH supports the team not only with the simula-
tion platform but also with algorithm development. Intelligent
control strategies can be validated in the simulator before they
are applied on the track. The ultimate goal is to achieve the
perfect balance between lap time and energy efficiency.
Beyond Formula E
While Formula E is the first racing series to benefit from AVL’s
multi-sim innovation, the technology is not limited to electric
racing. Any category where multi-car strategy plays a role can
profit – from endurance racing to single-seater development.
The ability to recreate realistic traffic and team interactions
in a virtual environment has the potential to transform how
motorsport prepares for competition.
“Using AVL VSM™ RACE in a multi-sim
environment allows our customers to gain an
edge in their challenge to adjust and optimize
the use of available energy in a real race
situation.”
MICHAEL PEINSITT
Skill Team Leader Race Engineering
2025