More than 150 hours of handcrafting went into Kimi Antonelli’s new home simulator—the high-tech rig is modeled in every detail after the cockpit of the Mercedes W17
Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli has unveiled his new, custom-built home simulator rig. For the Stuttgart-based factory team, this state-of-the-art training solution is a key component in their preparation between Grand Prix weekends, as the simulator replicates the conditions and feel of Antonelli’s Formula 1 car almost identically.
The simulator was developed by the British specialist “Cool Performance” and took about three months to build. More than 150 hours of manual labor went into the project, which was fine-tuned in collaboration with Antonelli to replicate the ergonomics and driving feel of his current Mercedes race car as accurately as possible.
At the heart of the system is a direct-drive wheelbase from Leo Bodnar with up to 26 Nm of torque. It simulates the high steering forces that act on the driver, especially in fast corners. The system is controlled via an original Mercedes Formula 1 steering wheel.
“The Formula Pro allows me to adjust everything exactly as I need it, which is essential for my training between races,” Antonelli explained enthusiastically. The system is complemented by a specially developed hydraulic pedal unit and a handcrafted racing seat made of leather and fiberglass, which matches the seating position in the Mercedes W17.
Tailored to the Mercedes W17 down to the smallest detail
The powertrain was also custom-developed—in collaboration with engineers from “Quaife Engineering.” The result is a simulator that replicates cockpit conditions as realistically as possible, enabling valuable training kilometers without the driver having to go to the racetrack.
For German Mercedes fans, a look at Antonelli’s new home setup offers a rare glimpse into the meticulous preparation of a factory driver. Especially in modern Formula 1, high-precision simulators play a crucial role in analyzing tracks, testing car setups, and experiencing the physical demands of the cockpit as realistically as possible.
Perfect Preparation for the Title Fight
The “Formula Pro” model is generally available to private customers as well, should there be any interest. However, the starting price is currently around 30,600 pounds.
Thanks in part to his thorough preparation, Antonelli is heading to the upcoming British Grand Prix at Silverstone with a great deal of confidence. The 19-year-old currently leads the drivers’ standings with a 40-point lead over his Mercedes teammate George Russell. Lewis Hamilton follows in third place with 125 championship points.
With five consecutive victories, Antonelli has impressively established himself at the top in his second Formula 1 season. For the Mercedes factory team, this achievement underscores the great importance of the new simulator rig.