Reiza Studios have announced via their social media that the “New” Hockenheim Ring has entered in to beta. When we say “New”, what we mean is since 2002, the circuit had a transformation in effect to make it safer and encourage a more stadium feel.
The “old” layout which was 4.24 miles in length and included four huge straights which were just under a mile in length each. These were essentially linked by small chicanes so speeds were fantastic and created excellent slipstreaming opportunities. From 2002 to the present day the circuit had a facelift and the length was reduced to 2,294 miles. In place of the long straights a tighter section was built, and many of the F1 teams at the time voiced their displeasure. The old section was torn down and tree’s replanted, so sadly the old layout can never be used again in real world racing. However in the reality world, we can hope Reiza Studios can come up with a “retro” version as well to coincide with their releases of Imola and Adelaide.
Here you can see some screenshots of the “New” Hockenheim circuit along with what looks like their version of the new style turbo F1 cars and some existing formulae.
We have been reliably informed the new car isn’t in beta at the time of this blog, and if you have a season pass or membership pack you can give the new circuit a blast. As soon as the new “F1” style car is available you will also be able to test this fantastic car.
There is a video posted on Reiza Studios Facebook page and is well worth a watch as it’s in beta using the “V12” F1 style cars around the Hockenheim Ring, and I must say it looks amazing – the rig is incredible – and boy do I miss those screaming V12 engines. Come on Liberty Media, bring back that noise in real world racing!
More news soon.