The “direct drive steering wheel” response from the Thrustmaster shepherd to the Logitech shepherdess and its G Pro Racing Wheel & Pedals.
At the very beginning of the year, we had the opportunity to offer you the test of the first direct drive steering wheel distributed on a (relatively) large scale. Logitech does not have the same scale as companies like Fanatec and its G Pro Racing Wheel remains fairly easy to find.
Direct drive: the ultimate in driving
Thrustmaster could not leave the field open to its main competitor for too long in accessories dedicated to motor racing simulations. In fact, the French company has even already given an answer.
Called T818, this response takes the form of a resolutely top-of-the-range base on which it is possible to attach the various wheels from the Thrustmaster catalog and which can then be completed with the crankset of your choice, or even a box of speeds.
Players who have had the opportunity to try this T818 seem to be unanimous in their praise for Thrustmaster. Still, the product, not content with being expensive, is delivered in kit form and is only available on the brand’s official website with delivery in a few countries.
© Thrustmaster
The Scuderia at the controls
To remedy this somewhat delicate situation, Thrustmaster has found an important partner, Ferrari. The T818 is thus re-bodied in the colors of the Scuderia and accompanied by the famous SF1000 wheel.
© Thrustmaster
Everything is offered thanks to a kit to which you must add the crankset, but which simplifies the choice of wheel and benefits from a wide distribution. Thrustmaster talks about pre-orders and a release in Europe (May 15-June 14), Australia (June 5-July 5) and North America/UK (June 12-July 12) before a launch in the rest of the world ” during 2023 “.
The T818 Ferrari SF1000 Simulator relies on direct drive technology for direct transmission, better feel and more power. In total, we benefit from 25 control buttons, a lot of information thanks to the 4.3-inch screen and high-level manufacturing quality for this 1:1 replica of the steering wheel of the SF1000 single-seater.
© Thrustmaster
To thumb its nose at Logitech, Thrustmaster is therefore relying as much on the high technicality of its product as on the aesthetic aspect. Even if it means investing more than 1,000 euros in an accessory, as long as it has class, right?
Source: press release
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