RaceRoom Racing Experience News

[h3]Update details:[/h3]
Download size = 1.2 GB
Client version = 0.9.7.15
Client BuildID = 20217302
Dedicated server version = 104.0.1586
Dedicated server BuildID = 20217477


[h2]Changelog:[/h2]

• Ranked MP - A new "Practice" button has been added to each event, launching a Time Attack session with the same car and track combo.
  Note: Currently, there is no HUD notification system for when the race server becomes available. A warning about time remaining will be shown before loading into practice instead. A proper notification system will be added in a future update.
  
• Ranked MP - Qualifying via Leaderboard Laptimes
  When an event uses leaderboard laptimes to set the starting grid, the Practice button becomes "Qualify".
  This feature will be used on Daily Sprints to ensure a higher pace of events.
  - Players without a recorded laptime for the car/track will start at the back.
  - Once a time is set, it can be improved until joining the server.
  
• Ranked MP - Conflict Detection for Overlapping Events
  Added a warning and block when registering for two events that overlap in time, where it's not possible to attend both.
  
• Ranked MP - Menu Data Update Fix
  Fixed an issue where the player’s stats (left side of the screen) were slow to update.
  

• Fix for failing to load onto the track when challenging a time attack ghost
  
• HUD - Mini display - fixed showing "VE -1%" in leaderboards with an lmdh car and for a wrong text when switching between an lmdh and a standard car while fuel use was disabled
  
• Settings - Adjusted down the default values for head movement in cockpit
  
• Settings - “Driver Names” now defaults to OFF for new players, for a cleaner screen
  
• Settings - Hud Overlays now defaults to “Essentials Only” for new players, for a cleaner screen
  
• Possible fix for a game crash when forcing next session through dedicated server interface
  
• Audi V8 DTM 92 - Fixed visual bug on rims when driving above a certain speed
  
• BMW 320i E36 Super Touring - Shift light added
  
• BMW M3 E30 ‘Drift’ - Fixed some LOD issues on the wheels
  
• FRX22 - Fixed an issue where the battery would drain even when set to 0% discharge; added tyre markings for the various compounds
  
• Formula cars - Improved tyre thread texture and roughness
  
• Hypercars - tyre stiffness tweaks that result in sharper high speed/load steering to better match steering inputs from reference telemetry (ex: cornering speeds could be matched in the simulator, but with higher steering inputs than seen in reference telemetry)
  
• Knutstorp - Fixed a wrong gravel material as well as small visual issues
  
• Oschersleben (old version, not in store anymore) - rebuilt for compatibility with new rendering
  
• Mazda MX-5 - Long final drive for Watkins Glen - Updated fuel use + estimate - Engine heating/cooling update - AI tweaks
  
• Renault Laguna Super Touring - Fixed the car still being on old tyres without the new compound; Shift light added
  
• Super Touring cars - adjusted RPM at which the Rev warning light comes up
  
• VW ID.R - Visual tweaks
  
• VW Scirocco - Fixed mirrored right hand side wheel centers and calipers; visual improvements for #81 metalness
  

[p][/p][p]RaceRoom’s biggest update of the year has arrived. With new cars, a complete overhaul of Ranked Multiplayer, and a major graphics upgrade, this release marks a new chapter for the game.[/p][p][/p][hr][/hr][p][/p][p][/p][previewyoutube][/previewyoutube][p]The top class of endurance racing is here. Step into the cockpit of the latest generation of LMDh prototypes, recreated in meticulous detail with full simulation of their hybrid systems, ICE engine maps, and Virtual Energy management.[/p][p][/p][h2]BMW M Hybrid V8[/h2][p]Developed under LMDh regulations, the BMW M Hybrid V8 marks the brand’s return to top-level endurance racing. Built on a Dallara chassis, it combines a twin-turbo V8 internal combustion engine with a standardized hybrid system, as mandated by the rules. The M Hybrid V8 represents a new generation of prototypes, blending high performance, hybrid technology, and unmistakable BMW design.[/p][p][/p][h2]Lamborghini SC63[/h2][p]The Lamborghini SC63 is the manufacturer’s first top-class endurance prototype, built for LMDh and GTP competition. It uses a Ligier chassis and a Lamborghini-designed twin-turbo V8 engine, paired with the standardized hybrid system required by the regulations. The SC63 marks Lamborghini’s entry into high-level prototype racing, combining aggressive styling, advanced engineering, and performance built for world-class endurance events.[/p][p]
[/p][p][/p][h2]Porsche 963[/h2][p]The Porsche 963 is an LMDh prototype built for endurance racing at the highest level. It features a Multimatic chassis and a twin-turbo V8 engine derived from the Porsche 918 Spyder, paired with a spec hybrid system in compliance with LMDh regulations. With a design rooted in Porsche’s long-standing prototype tradition, the 963 continues the legacy of icons like the 956 and 962.[/p][p]

[/p][p]Built for speed and endurance, these cars deliver the ultimate challenge.[/p][p]Get them now in the in-game store[/p][p][/p][hr][/hr][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]The golden era of touring cars grows even stronger. The Renault Laguna joins RaceRoom’s popular Super Touring class, giving you another icon to race door-to-door on your favorite tracks.[/p][p][/p][p]The Renault Laguna Supertouring is a race-prepared sedan developed to meet the Super Touring regulations of the late 1990s. Campaigned in series like the BTCC, it featured a naturally aspirated 2.0L engine, sequential gearbox, and a competition-focused aerodynamic package. Known for its agility and lightweight design, the Laguna achieved success against fierce international touring car rivals.[/p][p][/p][hr][/hr][p][/p][p][/p][previewyoutube][/previewyoutube][p][/p][p]Online racing in RaceRoom is entering a new era. The Ranked UI has been completely rebuilt with:[/p]

• [p]A fresh new design[/p]
• [p]Easy registration for races[/p]
• [p]Smart matchmaking with automatic splits[/p]
• [p]A clear structure of Daily Races, Weekly Races, and Special Events
  
  [/p]

[p]Whether you’re looking for quick sprints or long endurance battles, Ranked Multiplayer now makes it easier than ever to jump in and race.[/p][p][/p][hr][/hr][p][/p][h2]Major Graphics Update[/h2][p][/p][previewyoutube][/previewyoutube][p][/p][p]RaceRoom has never looked this good. The graphics upgrade introduces:[/p]

• [p]More realistic sunlight and ambient lighting[/p]
• [p]Physically Based Rendering (PBR) for materials[/p]
• [p]Improved car reflections[/p]
• [p]Significant performance optimizations
  
  [/p]

[p]This upgrade brings sharper visuals, more natural lighting, and better performance across the board.[/p][p][/p][hr][/hr][p][/p][h2]Update Available Now[/h2][p]The Q3 2025 Update is live! Download it today and experience the next step in RaceRoom.[/p][p]See you on the track![/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]
[/p][h3]Update details:[/h3][p]201316 [/p]

1. [p] Download size = 51.2 GB  [/p]
2. [p] Client version = 0.9.7.09 [/p]
3. [p] Client BuildID = 20127232 [/p]
4. [p] Dedicated server version = 104.0.1585 [/p]
5. [p] Dedicated server BuildID = 20119424 [/p]

[p][/p][h2]Changelog:[/h2]

• [p]Rendering engine upgrades - new visuals, performance optimizations [/p]
• [p]Source code major refactoring / maintenance to bring it to modern coding standards [/p]
• [p]Shared Memory API updates, breaking backward compatibility [/p]
• [p]Ended support for SLI / Multi-GPU systems [/p]
• [p]User Interface - Updated Chrome Embedded Framework version from 73.0.3683 to 136.1.6 [/p]
• [p]User Interface - fixed “HUD ingame overlays - NONE” setting still having the starting light overlay visible at race start [/p]
• [p]Added an Autoblip option for Gearbox driving assists [/p]
• [p]Added support for Hypercars hybrid systems / Virtual Energy [/p]
• [p]Force Feedback - Fade in / out effects to avoid sudden jolts when pausing / unpausing gameplay - prevented a sudden pull when switching to AI control [/p]
• [p]Replay files that are not marked as favourites are now deleted if older than 30 days [/p]
• [p]Vehicle will now have a preheated engine when leaving pitlane [/p]
• [p]Laptime will now be invalidated in Time Attack when suspensions receive excessive force/travel, preventing ‘jumps’ over some chicanes from being meta [/p]
• [p]AI Adaptation xml file now has tags that are easier to comprehend [/p]
• [p]AI’s now properly affected by track grip variations ( for example along the Nordschleife ) [/p]
• [p]AI’s now less tempted to downshift into 1st gear when it’s not needed [/p]
• [p]All cars - Reduced vibrations of flat spots and tweaked how quickly they wear off [/p]
• [p]DTM 1995 - Added a medium tyre compound [/p]
• [p]Formula RaceRoom 90 - Improved dampers, tyre wear profiles, baseline car setup [/p]
• [p]Formula RaceRoom U.S. - Improved dampers and 3rd spring, updated engine heating behaviour [/p]
• [p]Formula RaceRoom X-22 - Received Brake Migration tech like Hypercars [/p]
• [p]German Nationals - Improved engine heating behaviour, tweaks to suspensions [/p]
• [p]Group 5 cars - Improved suspensions and engine heating behaviour [/p]
• [p]Mazda DPi - Improved suspensions, engine heating behaviour, aero behaviour (more sensitive diffuser), fine tuned the baseline car setup [/p]
• [p]Mazda MX-5 - AI improvements [/p]
• [p]McLaren 720s GT3 + evo - Fixed bad reverb sounds [/p]
• [p]P1 car class - Physics updated from what was learned developing prototypes, suspension, gearchange algorithms, engine heating [/p]
• [p]P4/5 Competizione - Fixed a bad default engine map setting [/p]
• [p]Pagani Zonda R - Improved suspensions [/p]
• [p]Porsche 911 GT3 Cup (992) - Updated differential so it doesn’t lock as often, improved suspension [/p]
• [p]Porsche 944 - Improved engine heating behaviour [/p]
• [p]Silhouette cars - Improved engine heating behaviour, suspensions and dampers. Fine-tuned the baseline car setups [/p]
• [p]Super Touring - Added a medium tyre compound, Base BoP tweaks.
  
  
  
  
  [/p]

[h3]Introduction[/h3][p]We're on the eve of the biggest RaceRoom update of the year... and it's packed! Tomorrow's release brings major advancements on several fronts: a significant upgrade to our graphics engine, a new interface dedicated to Ranked Multiplayer and the long-anticipated arrival of Hypercars to RaceRoom.[/p][p]With so much going into this build, we wanted to take a moment and highlight some of the details that might puzzle some of you. This short article gives our physics lead Alex Hodgkinson a chance to walk you through some of the main intricacies of the Hypercar class.[/p][p]We hope it gives you a deeper understanding of our implementation, and as always, we can’t wait to hear your feedback once you get your hands on it.[/p][p]See you on track,[/p][p]J-F[/p][p]Head of Studio, KW Studios[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]

[/p][h3]A Word from Alex Hodgkinson[/h3][p]Hi everyone — Alex here.[/p][p]With Hypercars joining the RaceRoom garage, it felt like the right time to step back and explain what makes them special, and how they differ from the race cars you might already be familiar with in the sim. These machines are unique in how they manage energy, balance performance, and deliver lap time, and our goal has been to recreate that with as much accuracy as possible. The technology in those cars can be intimidating at first, but from a driver point of view, there's actually not that much to pay attention to while driving.[/p][h3]
Virtual Energy[/h3][p]The Virtual Energy system quantifies how much total power is delivered to the rear wheels by the combined ICE and electric motor. By setting a Virtual Energy limit per stint, cars with different powertrains can be balanced in terms of total energy use.[/p][p]For example, with a 900 MJ stint limit, one car might use 800 MJ from the ICE and 100 MJ from the hybrid system, while another car without hybrid assistance would deploy all 900 MJ via its ICE.[/p][p]From the driver’s perspective, this system can be treated like a virtual fuel tank — it should never be fully depleted. Running out of Virtual Energy triggers mandatory pit stops and time penalties, as per series regulations.[/p][p][/p][h3]The Hybrid System[/h3][p]LMDh cars share a spec hybrid system featuring a Bosch MGU (motor-generator unit) and Cosworth electronic control hardware. The system is largely passive, requiring no manual management from the driver during a race.[/p][p]Its primary purpose is fuel efficiency, delivering an average fuel saving of 3–6% per lap compared to ICE-only cars — roughly 150 litres over a 24-hour race.[/p][p]Regulations define the combined power output curve of the ICE and electric motor. The motor does not act as an extra power boost: when it's active, the ICE throttle is reduced so the total output remains within allowed limits.[/p][p]
[/p][p]Battery recharge occurs during braking, typically recovering 3–4% per braking zone. Since time spent at full throttle far exceeds time spent braking, the battery will naturally cycle between partial charges once the initial full charge is used. The system maintains charge between 30% and 100% to avoid overheating. If the ICE runs out of fuel, a “limp home” mode allows use of the final 30% of battery.[/p][p]In addition to the rear-mounted MGU, LMDh cars use an electronic brake-by-wire (BBW) system rather than a purely mechanical rear brake linkage. This allows the MGU and BBW to work together seamlessly to maintain consistent braking. For example, if the battery becomes fully charged mid-braking, the MGU stops regenerating and the hydraulic brakes instantly compensate with equivalent torque, ensuring no change in braking feel for the driver.

[/p][p][/p][h3]About Alex Hodgkinson[/h3][p][/p][p]Hi, I’m Alex – the physics / handling / A.I. guy here at KW Studios. I’ve been deep into real motorsport since I was 10, long circuit kart champion in England and eventually moving up to single-seaters and GT cars. I have a degree in motorsport engineering and before joining RaceRoom, I was teaching at track days. I’m really passionate about bringing the feeling of real racing cars into sim racing. And that’s exactly what this latest update is about.[/p][p][/p]

[h3]Upcoming Changes to RaceRoom’s Shared Memory API – September 24th Update[/h3][p][/p][p]On September 24, 2025, RaceRoom will receive a major update that introduces fixes and improvements to the shared memory API. These changes are necessary to support new features such as the upcoming Hypercars / LMDh hybrid systems and their virtual energy systems.[/p][p]Because of the scope of these additions, the shared memory block will no longer be backward compatible. This means that third-party apps, dashboards, motion rigs, and other tools that rely on the shared memory API will stop working correctly unless they are updated.[/p][p][/p][p]If you are an app developer using RaceRoom’s shared memory interface:[/p]

• [p]The documentation and a sample program can be found here: RaceRoom Shared Memory API on GitHub[/p]
• [p]To help with the transition, we can provide early access to a game build that includes the updated shared memory structure. If you would like access, please join our discord and head over to the #Apps channel where you also can participate in the conversation and submit your own wishes and requirements for further modifications of our API.[/p]

[p][/p][p]We encourage all developers to update their tools ahead of the September 24th release to ensure a smooth experience for their users.[/p][p][/p][p]Thank you for your continued support in expanding the RaceRoom ecosystem![/p][p][/p][p]J-F[/p]

[h3]Summer Sale – Save 50% on All cars and tracks[/h3][p][/p][p]The RaceRoom Summer Sale is live until September 14th, with 50% off all cars and tracks in the store. It’s also the perfect time to grab two limited-time bundles:[/p][p]Summer Pack 2025 Includes DTM 2024, DTM 1995 and Super Touring cars, plus 7 iconic tracks.[/p][p]Online Racing Pack – Q3 2025 Perfect for ranked multiplayer, with a mix of GT, touring, cup and formula cars and tracks.[/p][p]Both packs include the exclusive KW Suspension Livery for the Audi TT RS VLN, available only during the Summer Sale.[/p][p]Browse the store now[/p][p][/p][p][/p][hr][/hr][p][/p][h3]RaceRoom Super Touring Championship[/h3][p]The first edition of the RaceRoom Super Touring Championship (RSTC) is delivering exactly what it promised – intense, elbows-out racing in brutal 90s touring cars across legendary circuits.[/p][p]RSTC - Round 3: AVUS & Zolder - RaceRoom Super Touring Championship 2025[/p][p]So far we've visited Hockenheimring, Estoril, Donington, AVUS and Zolder, and the fight for the championship is heating up. After 3 rounds, Tomás Ribeiro leads the standings by just 4 points over Bence Farkas, with Enzo Philippau close behind.[/p][p]How to Join[/p][p]You can still jump into the action for Round 4:[/p]

• [p]Set a lap time on the leaderboard before September 2[/p]
• [p]If you’re in the top 30, you’ll be invited to the live multiplayer race[/p]
• [p]Note: Multiplayer participation requires owning the car and track[/p]

[p]Race Day: September 4th
Tracks: Silverstone Classic and Silverstone (modern layout)
Broadcast: Live on YouTube with POV coverage from OverTake.GG [/p][p][/p][p][/p][hr][/hr][p][/p][h3]Drive with KW Style – Compete for Real-World Prizes[/h3][p]Get behind the wheel of the Audi TT RS VLN in a hotlap competition at Bilster Berg for a chance to win exclusive prizes from KW Automotive.[/p][p][/p]

• [p]Top 3 drivers win a taxi ride on the Nürburgring Nordschleife[/p]
• [p]Additional winners receive KW Racing merchandise[/p]
• [p]All participants with a Summer Pack get the exclusive KW livery for the TT RS VLN
  
  [/p]

[p]Join the KW Competition here[/p][p]
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