Next-Generation Racing Precision
Thrustmaster has officially revealed its latest hardware milestone, the T-GT III steering wheel, designed specifically for PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5. This launch marks a significant development in the company's 16-year partnership with the Gran Turismo franchise. The new setup is scheduled to hit the market on December 3, with a retail price point of $749.99 / £649.99 / €699.99.
Technical Innovations and Performance
The T-GT III distinguishes itself as the first bundle to utilize "Direct Axial Drive" technology tailored for Gran Turismo. Furthermore, it is the inaugural offering in the series to natively incorporate a load-cell pedal set, providing users with more realistic braking pressure.
Key performance specifications include:
- Torque: A constant 5 Nm of torque with an overshoot capacity reaching 10 Nm.
- Responsiveness: Engineered for ultra-low latency and instantaneous feedback to avoid saturation during intense racing.
- Haptic Immersion: Utilizing Thrustmaster’s proprietary Harmony technology, the wheel introduces specific effects such as "Gear Jolt" for realistic shifting sensations and "Engine Roar" for chassis vibration synced with engine RPM.
Describing the new hardware, the manufacturer stated: «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.»
A Long-Standing Collaborative Effort
The synergy between Polyphony Digital and Thrustmaster continues to be a cornerstone of the product's development. Kazunori Yamauchi, the producer of the Gran Turismo series, highlighted the evolution of their shared journey:
«We have a long-standing partnership with Thrustmaster, who, over the years, have remained faithful to Gran Turismo by offering solutions that enhance the driving experience. The journey we've taken together has allowed us to extend the desired sensations through a steering wheel as technology and the game have evolved.»
Commitment to Future Support
To ensure the equipment remains relevant as the game evolves, Thrustmaster plans to provide ongoing software and firmware updates. These updates are intended to align with the game's roadmap, specifically supporting future Spec updates for Gran Turismo 7. According to Gilles Raulet, director of development and licensing at Thrustmaster, the partnership is driven by a shared commitment to fidelity that pushes both teams to pursue ambitious engineering goals.