The new Fanatec ClubSport DD wheelbases have just been unveiled at ADAC Simexpo. Pre-orders are already open, with deliveries scheduled from November 7, 2023. We had the chance to talk directly to Thomas Jackermeier, the company’s CEO, and to take the car for a spin. We tell you everything we know about the brand’s two new DDs!
Two Fanatec ClubSport DD wheelbases
The very good news is that it’s not a base but 2 new Direct Drives that the Germans are bringing out of the drawers. The first, available for pre-order, is the PC and XBox compatible version. It develops a constant torque of 12Nm (not peak). It incorporates their brand-new “FullForce” force feedback management system, which we’ll talk about in a few lines. This DD will be followed by a second ClubSport DD base. This one is PC, XBox and PlayStation compatible, with a constant torque of 15Nm.
Why two new bases?
To find out more: Fanatec CEO talks about the new bases
The Fanatec CS DD and CS DD bases arrive to fill a hole in the Fanatec range. When they finally abandoned belt-driven bases in 2021 and launched the CSL DD range, the aim had always been to also offer a ClubSport model. In concrete terms, the new ClubSport range is built on the same architecture as the CSL range. With a Brushless motor larger than the CSL DD and GT DD Pro, but more consistent with the current state of the simracing market than the old Outrunner motors they use on Podium bases. The steering shaft has also undergone a complete overhaul compared to the CSL model. Farewell to carbon-fiber composite and hello to good old aluminum, strong and reliable in all circumstances.
The return of Fanatec FullForce
If there’s one point that seems particularly interesting, it’s their new force feedback management system. Let’s not forget that, although Fanatec’s current FFB system is highly advanced, it was developed back in the days of belt-driven bases. Thomas therefore explained that it was high time for them to change models and integrate the new Fanatec Fullforce.
In concrete terms, this is an engine management model that promises greater precision and fine detail. But also integrated vibrations in the FFB. The idea behind these vibrations is to better feel the loss of grip caused by a tire rubbing on asphalt, for example. Unfortunately, the simulators we were able to use at the show were set to very neutral settings (for the general public)… As a result, I wasn’t able to appreciate the full impact of this new feature. According to Thomas, the vibrations are so precise that the base engine could be made to play music!
A better engine heat management system
The other interesting aspect of the new force feedback management protocol is the integration of improved engine heating management. In concrete terms, Fanatec ClubSport DD bases are designed never to overheat and lose power during a session. It’s also worth noting that the torque announced by the brand is not a peak torque, but a constant torque. Feel and torque remain unchanged throughout even the longest gaming sessions. A good step forward for the brand!
New base prices
On the left, the Fanatec CS DD with its blue rear banding, and on the right, the Fanatec CS DD with its yellow banding.
Now we move on to the subject that’s sure to interest you most… The price of the new Fanatec CS bases. The PC and XBox compatible Fanatec CS DD with 12Nm of torque is priced at €699.95. The PC XBox and Playstation-compatible Fanatec CS DD with 15Nm of torque will be €999.95.
When can I buy them?
The PC and XBox-compatible Fanatec CS DD base is available for pre-order and will be delivered from November 7, 2023. And the CS DD is also available on pre-order and will be delivered from December 12, 2023.
But that’s not all!
The Bentley steering wheels, Podium Rally hub and Formula chassis will all be released before the end of 2023. It’s clear that Fanatec is back on track and ready to reassert their authority in a SimRacing market they dominate and intend to dominate for a long time to come.
I’ll leave you to it for now, as we still have a ton of things to test at ADAC. We’ll be back very soon to tell you all about it 🙂
