Thrustmaster announces Ferrari F1 replica racing wheel

Thrustmaster has announced a new addition to its range of premium gaming wheels, the Ferrari F1 T500 Integral.

The wheel is aimed at hard core F1-sim racers, and is closely modelled on the actual steering wheel used in the Ferrari F1 cars; a feature which Thrustmaster hopes will make it the de-facto choice for use with the eagerly awaited F1 2011 game that launches later this year.

The wheel boasts full integration with the forthcoming title, including fully functional KERS, DRS and pit lane limiter buttons located on the wheel.

Meanwhile, the other switches around the wheel can be used to perform all sorts of tasks from adjusting the brake balance to tweaking the fuel mix, just like a real F1 steering wheel. Our only gripe when we tried it out was that, despite their realistic appearance, the rotary switches in the centre of the wheel can’t actually be turned.

The Ferrari F1 T500 Integral is based on the T500 RS steering wheel that Thrustmaster released earlier this year, meaning that it sports the same replaceable drive belt, high torque motor and 1080° of rotational movement (three full turns).

Unsurprisingly, the new racing wheel isn't cheap, though. There's no word on UK pricing yet, but anyone interested in purchasing the Ferrari F1 T500 Integral can expect to stump up around €599 (£517) for the privilege of owning one. However, for those who already own the T500 RS, Thrustmaster will be selling the Ferrari F1 steering wheel attachment separately for an RRP of €149 (£129).

Are you looking forward to the release of F1 2011? Are you on the lookout for a new racing steering wheel? Let us know your thoughts in the forums.