Revolutionizing the Simulation Experience
Thrustmaster has officially revealed its latest gaming hardware, the T-GT III steering wheel, built specifically for PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5. This release marks a significant milestone in the company’s 16-year collaborative history with the Gran Turismo franchise. Designed as the ultimate companion for Gran Turismo 7, the new setup is scheduled for release on December 3, with a retail price of $749.99 / £649.99 / €699.99.
Technical Innovations and Performance
The T-GT III bundle introduces several industry-first features, positioning itself as a premium choice for competitive sim racers. According to the manufacturer, it is the first Direct Axial Drive bundle engineered specifically for the Gran Turismo ecosystem and the first to come with a natively integrated load-cell pedal set.
Key performance specifications include:
- Torque Capabilities: The wheel provides a constant 5 Nm of torque with an overshoot capacity reaching 10 Nm, ensuring minimal latency and immediate input response.
- Immersive Haptics: Utilizing proprietary Harmony technology, the device features specialized effects such as "Gear Jolt," which simulates the physical impact of gear shifts, and "Engine Roar," which vibrates the chassis in synchronization with engine RPM.
- Design: The package features the signature T-GT wheel, boasting a premium leather finish and four dedicated rotary encoders calibrated for in-game Gran Turismo functions.
"Engineered without compromise for the most demanding sim racers, the T-GT III represents the ultimate expression of Thrustmaster's expertise and delivers an authentic and immersive Gran Turismo experience in a turnkey bundle," stated the company regarding the new hardware.
A Lasting Partnership
The collaboration between Polyphony Digital and Thrustmaster continues to evolve alongside the game. Kazunori Yamauchi, the producer of the Gran Turismo series, noted that the evolution of their steering wheel technology has mirrored the advancements within the game itself, and confirmed that Thrustmaster will serve as a partner for the Gran Turismo World Series.
To ensure the hardware remains relevant as the game expands, Thrustmaster plans to provide ongoing software and firmware updates. This strategy aims to align the peripheral with upcoming Gran Turismo "Spec" updates, ensuring that users maintain optimal performance and fidelity throughout the product's lifespan.