Fanatec’s $2,000 Bentley GT3 steering wheel brings true racing experience

This isn’t a game wheel that looks like the real thing, it’s the real thing, and it’ll cost you $2,000

The race car is equipped with some of the most advanced technology in the automotive world. The Bentley Continental GT3 Pikes Peak hill climber is a good example. Now you can buy a steering wheel that fits your car and just happens to be able to control a virtual race car in a video game on your Playstation or PC.

This product from Fanatec is called the Podium Steering Wheel Bentley GT3, and it’s very true. Fanatec and Bentley Motorsports co-developed this wheel so it’s optimized for the track, whether it’s a real or simulated track. As such, it may be the most advanced steering wheel capable of controlling a video game on sale today.

Read: This racing sim is made from a real Ferrari 458

The highlight is the 3.4-inch circular display located in the center of the steering wheel. When one uses the scroll wheel, it automatically levels itself so the display itself always remains upright. There, drivers can find important information such as their equipment, speed, lap times, fuel levels, and even live maps. The display is surrounded by forged carbon fiber and CNC-machined aluminum knobs.

The main structure of the wheel itself is a 5mm thick carbon fiber plate with a custom green weave. The handle is made of Alcantara and the wheels have a removable bottom part. Bentley calls it the Pikes Peak Grip, in honor of the man who came up with it, Rhys Millen. Millen is well known in the Pikes Peak community as a two-time PPHC champion and 12-time class champion. The QR2 Pro wheel rim quick release is the same one used on other actual steering wheels.

Chief Marketing Officer of Fanatec Belma Nadarevic said: “Bringing real-world racing technology into the hands of sim racers is a unique challenge, and this product is a testament to the passion and perseverance of our team. “The close collaboration with Bentley Motors has enabled We were able to create something truly extraordinary – a perfect combination of racing performance and luxury that was worth the wait!”

Interestingly, owners also receive a stand with purchase. When placed on the stand, the steering wheel will enter display mode and display the famous track on a small screen. A few videos have emerged showing the wheels in action. Hopefully it works better in real life than in the clip below. This isn’t the fastest rotating monitor we’ve seen. Still, it’s a pretty cool accessory — and it should cost $2,000.