BMW and Fanatec cooperate to produce replica of the BMW M3 GT steering wheel for games consoles.

Munich, 1st November 2012. Even more realistic, even more fun: Fanatec, the successful manufacturer of accessories for racing games, has worked closely with BMW to develop a replica of the BMW M3 GT steering wheel, which gives players the feeling they are driving a real racing car. 

The steering wheel looks remarkably similar to the original. It is made entirely of metal and covered in Alcantara®. This gives it a sophisticated appearance, while also providing excellent grip when steering during the game. 

BMW works driver Dirk Adorf (DE) ensured the similarities the wheel shares with the original do not stop with the appearance. Adorf has contested countless races at the wheel of the BMW M3 GT, which was hugely successful under its previous guise as the BMW M3 GT2. The Nordschleife expert called on all of his experience when working hand in hand with the developers at Fanatec to guarantee that the steering wheel is as realistic as possible. 

“We met at the BMW plant in Regensburg, where I was able to test the Fanatec steering wheel,” said Adorf. “I tried to use the know-how I have built up over the years to help the developers with details like track conditions and forces that have an effect on the steering wheel when driving. The results are impressive. The replica is very close to the original.” 

In total, 11 buttons for detailed settings, LED displays and two individually configurable shift paddles ensure an authentic race feel. The wheel also includes two small joysticks to navigate through the games’ menus. Those who want even more can also look forward to vibrations on the steering wheel and pedals, meaning gamers can feel every bump on the virtual track. 

The replica of the steering wheel from the BMW M3 GT is compatible with PCs and the PlayStation® 3, as well as all Fanatec accessory systems. It is available in the Fanatec online shop at a price of 249.95 Euros.