Yes, It's another stereotypical idea thread...

[DazRave]

The Intro...
I've been working on this for a few months now, it started off as a fun, self learn project that has slowly grew into a business idea with, what I believe, some weight behind it.

I'm going to attempt to keep the explanation of the idea punchy, so I'll just pad out any of the points with further posts if anyone asks for more information.

The Seed...
About 5 months ago I started developing a Motorsport Simulator website as well as what I can only describe as a type of micro CRM. The website and bespoke CRM was able to control and sync with a realistic driving simulator PC game (rFactor, for those in the know). The result was that you could easily and effectively run a service much like a Go Karting venue would run. Where by you can add drivers, run events and keep track of huge amounts of data, the usual statistics you'd expect to see while watching some sort of Motorsport. It's a robust system and since it's also custom built by myself, can be highly diverse.

The concept...
...is to run a bunch of racing simulators using highly regarded equipment. Force feedback steering wheels, pedals, bucket seats etc. Each simulator rig will basically represent a virtual car using the simulator rig, a dedicated PC and the Oculus Rift (as soon as the high definition consumer version is out). I'm after the Facebook purchase of Oculus Rift most of you know what it is, but for those who don't, it will help create an extremely immersive experience focusing strongly on realism. Each rig will be linked to a server which manages the races and communicates with the website and CRM. So in a nutshell, the concept is to rent these racing simulators out. (yes, it's not a new idea or anything, so it already has a fruitful market it can be applied too). I wish to create a mobile venue with some sort of converted/purpose built vehicle/trailer (I've got plenty of research on this too which I won't go into unless asked). Each simulator rig will also be removable, giving me the ability to set up anywhere with a power source.

The Market...
I started to research other UK based businesses that offer a similar service. I've worked out there are a few major competitors who already offer a similar level of service. Two businesses (Mainly in the south) with indoor venues and another (Midlands area) that is a mobile venue.

The services...
...that I would offer differ from the competition, slightly. Firstly, I would take the main route to market by targeting corporate and private hospitality as a hire service, just like the competition. Secondly, I'd like to attend popular motor shows (and Motorsport events) running more of a 'pay per play' service, much like one of the competition. The third service which hasn't been done yet to my knowledge, would be a regular tournament/championship, the idea being that bars/clubs/pubs would let me run the tournament/championship at their venues similar to how a pub quiz and other nights are run. (while on that note, it's well worth mentioning I have also built live score board displays and a way to watch the races as a spectator.) I don't expect the third option to gain much momentum or profit but could be the best way to gain exposure and generate a little bit of word of mouth marketing.

The Question...
I guess the reason I've finally decided to share this idea (albeit loosely) on UKBF is that... well quite frankly, I'd like everyone to rip my idea apart. I want to know if the research and knowledge I have gained over the last 5 months is enough by testing it out against you guys. I feel a completely non bias outside perspective right now is crucial to success, especially before I go ahead and invest some money in buying equipment to test the whole idea.

So I challenge you to ask me questions to try and stump me. What do you think I might have not thought about at all? What do you think of the idea in general?

Thank you to anyone who has got as far as this sentence, and thank you in advance to anyone who fancies replying!


Darren

 

[Paul_Rosser]

We work with a number of firms which have built simulators for use by F1, touring car etc. drivers, but you seem to have a different angle that you are going for the consumer market.

Can't see anything wrong with the idea except that you will need a lot of capital to buy/build you simulators prior to seeing any return.

Can you rent the hardware first and see if you can get venues interested before having to fork out a lot of cash?

 

[DazRave]

We work with a number of firms which have built simulators for use by F1, touring car etc. drivers, but you seem to have a different angle that you are going for the consumer market.

Can't see anything wrong with the idea except that you will need a lot of capital to buy/build you simulators prior to seeing any return.

Can you rent the hardware first and see if you can get venues interested before having to fork out a lot of cash?

Hi Paul,

Yes, I've come in at a different angle. Last year I had the luxury of trying a professional simulator. I was disappointed by the standard of systems for consumers in comparison and also, in saying this, I was disappointed that the professional simulator hadn't even heard of the Oculus Rift and it's potential. I don't know if you have tried the Oculus Rift, but it's really something special and even with a basic simulator rig can create the feeling of being in a full race spec car on a world famous circuit.

I've estimated it will cost just short of £3k per simulator, which personally I don't see being that much considering the cost of, let's say for comparison sake, a Go Kart setup for rental at a venue. The equipment will also be a lot cheaper to maintain.

I've calculated the cost using the retail price of top end, off the shelve, equipment. This includes the best steering wheel/pedal setup, a decent flat packed racing seat and rig as well as a Gaming PC (at the recommended spec for the Simulator Software) and the Oculus Rift. So I presume buying all these items in bulk and perhaps even hiring a company to fabricate my own custom built rigs might provide a cheaper option still.

Another option would be run a few simulator rigs and start small, once the ball get's rolling more rigs can be added. Which is the likely route to market I'll take if I decided to fund this idea myself.

As for renting, I haven't managed to find a good enough rental option to satisfy my high attention to detail in terms of build quality and experience.

 

[Levi]

Thank god, it's not just another ideas thread.

You have clearly thought about the all the angles.

I think convincing corporate clients this is the way to go rather than go jarring is going to be rather difficult.

Other than that I don't see any issue with you idea, without seeing mire of your market research / financials.

I imagine this is going to be pricey to set up?

 

[Excel Expert]

Ohhh a gamin thread - you dont get many on here. I've been a major gamer since the 80's so here are some thoughts based on that.

1. At £3k a rig I would also seriously consider making a version to sell directly to end users. Racing fanatics would pay £4-£5k easy for a rig like that - especially if you got the Oculus Rift up and running. Could be a way to bankroll the kit you need to go out on the road.

2. Sell them to race courses with the data for their course. Each course tends to put new racers through familiarisation mini courses. Being able to do a few laps on a simulator before putting rubber to tarmac may make their life easier.

3. Could they be sold to ordinary driving schools like BSM if the software is updated? (I believe rRacer is good for modding in such ways - long time since I've looked at it though)

4. Can the rigs be changed to run a flight simulator? Could be a second market if it is just a case of swapping the controls and software. (Probably safe to ignore the Train Simulator and Goat Simulator markets)

5. I would be cautious on setting up a fixed location. A number of places sprang up running LAN parties and they died off very quickly. I would be more tempted to get a articulated lorry trailer and kit it out with 5 or 6 rigs. Then take that to corporate events, sporting events etc. The cost of that maybe prohibitive though - you probably wouldn't need the front tractor unit (the expensive bit of the truck) as you can probably hire them with a driver for the day.

 

[DazRave]

Thanks for the replies guys!

Thank god, it's not just another ideas thread.

You have clearly thought about the all the angles.

I think convincing corporate clients this is the way to go rather than go jarring is going to be rather difficult.

Other than that I don't see any issue with you idea, without seeing mire of your market research / financials.

I imagine this is going to be pricey to set up?

Thank you, I tried to cover all angles I could think of and have even secret shopped at some of the competitors venues to get a feel of their service.

I completely agree with your query on attracting corporate clients. My strategy to attract them was to focus on attending motor shows first running a pay per play and offering prizes for people who can beat fastest laps etc. The system, once a race is over, sends a auto generated PDF to a wifi printer which then prints out each drivers race report. The benefit of this is that it is personal to the customer with one side of the report displaying a complete lap time break down and other statistical data. The other side of the race report is purely for marketing purposes, introducing the corporate hospitality/private rental side of the business to customers that I hope will already be impressed with their experience.

First draft on the financials saw the figure of around £15k-20k for start up costs. This basically included the build of 4 simulator rigs and the server to run them all, the commercial licence for the Racing Simulator I'm using (rFactor) as well as a large Gazebo/Tent to house everything in. I'd also accounted for the lease of a decent sized Van... but I had also toyed with the idea of leasing a 4x4 and modifying an old caravan..... Although I'd have to seriously put some elbow grease into getting a caravan to look as professional as I envision the business to be.

Now, I've probably under estimated how much I do actually need as start up capital, to be perfectly honest. So I'm getting to the point where I'm probably going to have to look at investment options once I've a fully functioning demo of the system which includes hardware. Not quite sure of my options around investment just yet as I've been busy making sure I could create something worth investing in, in the first place.

Ohhh a gamin thread - you dont get many on here. I've been a major gamer since the 80's so here are some thoughts based on that.

Oh don't I know it! I've searched high and low for even "simulator" related threads and not really found much at all. Worried me at first, but I've come to realise that it really shouldn't... Just might make finding advise etc a little harder!

1. At £3k a rig I would also seriously consider making a version to sell directly to end users. Racing fanatics would pay £4-£5k easy for a rig like that - especially if you got the Oculus Rift up and running. Could be a way to bankroll the kit you need to go out on the road.

Problem is, you wouldn't just sell a Go Kart or a track day car of some sort to end users without first knowing they understand how to maintain it. The rigs will be similar to that. Although easy to maintain for me, some knowledge and understanding of the equipment and how it all works is needed. Also, everything packaged up with the rig you can purchase individually, so anyone who did know how to maintain the rig could just go out and build one themselves... I know I would, if the shoe was on the other foot.

Also, the mirco CRM needs a server, although it's mainly all automated it still needs tweaking from time to time and it's also pretty useless with just one simulator rig. It's designed to encourage racing and racing improvement.

2. Sell them to race courses with the data for their course. Each course tends to put new racers through familiarisation mini courses. Being able to do a few laps on a simulator before putting rubber to tarmac may make their life easier.

This is something I have thought about, although I didn't intend to sell the rig as a product (for the same reasons I have listed above), I did however think about hiring the system out to Track Days and (race) driver training days etc running the virtual tracks as a learning tool. Probably something I should think about more actually.

3. Could they be sold to ordinary driving schools like BSM if the software is updated? (I believe rRacer is good for modding in such ways - long time since I've looked at it though)

Again, I don't think it's a sale worthy product at the moment however to answer your question, with the right modifications to the game yes, this kind of thing can be done. However with all my energy and focus going on the Motorsport version of the system already and me only being one man, I think I would trying to bite more then I could chew to then start developing a Driver Training simulator for a driving school.

Not something I will rule out completely though!

4. Can the rigs be changed to run a flight simulator? Could be a second market if it is just a case of swapping the controls and software. (Probably safe to ignore the Train Simulator and Goat Simulator markets)

I don't see why they can't... again though, I believe my USP is the micro CRM I've built. It really is above and beyond what the competition is using at the moment due to my marketing and design background as well as my love of motorsport and understanding of the computer game/simulation industry.

To give you a little more about why I think my system is (so far) unique I shall give you a quick user story...

The average ‘pay per drive’ session will consist of three stages:

1. As customers queue for a session, they will be registered as a new driver by our ‘pit crew’ using handheld tablet computers. Returning customers won’t need to register again and can sign in electronically via a pit crew member.
   
   
2. Each customer will be automatically assigned a race number by the system, this number refers to which driving simulator they will be using for their session. This is so the system can keep track of each drivers individual lap times and race data. Our Race Operator will let each driver know their race number and help customers adjust seating positions etc.
   
   
3. Once everyone is seated in a simulator, the Race Operator will start the session. The system will then automatically record each simulators race data. At the end of the session, the system will generate a personalised data sheet for each driver and send them to the printer ready to be collected upon exit. This print out serves as a great memento and also acts as a promotional flyer for future business.

If a fastest lap time is ever broken, the system will automatically update the businesses social media accounts by posting that the lap time has been broken, linking back to the online race report of the session that the time was broken in. The system is also capable of sending an SMS text message to the customer who has had their time beaten (if they have opted in). Over the course of a motor show, this will help to create repeat business by encouraging competitive behaviour between customers.

5. I would be cautious on setting up a fixed location. A number of places sprang up running LAN parties and they died off very quickly. I would be more tempted to get a articulated lorry trailer and kit it out with 5 or 6 rigs. Then take that to corporate events, sporting events etc. The cost of that maybe prohibitive though - you probably wouldn't need the front tractor unit (the expensive bit of the truck) as you can probably hire them with a driver for the day.

Completely agree, I am aiming towards a completely mobile venue, one that I hope to be easy and quick to set up after being moved. I had not thought about an articulated lorry purely on the basis of not being able to drive it myself... I shall look into how much hiring them with drivers costs compared to a smaller mobile venue i can drive myself (a used mobile library seemed a good option for awhile and could be easily converted).

I've tried to cover AS MUCH as I could, to be honest.

Thank you for taking the time to reply, It's got my mind ticking over again, so it was a very productive post for me!

 

[bud]

I had the opportunity to try an F1 simulator at a logistics trade show in Peterborough a couple of years ago. I was able to race against one of the other managers, and we went back for another go. They weren't charging, as they were networking for customers. It was generating a lot of interest, although I must admit I felt sick after the second visit ;-)

There were two simulators set up in a trailer which was custom made, with the side folding out like a stage, with broad steps to ground level.

This was a proper HGV unit & Trailer, and would have cost some serious money, but there are older trailers around which can be picked up for a reasonable cost. As well as the simulators, it had some tables, food & drink, and sales literature etc.

As the previous poster mentioned, you could hire a unit with driver depending on frequency etc. or if you or a family member have 7.5 tonne entitlement you could look at a restricted operators license and something the size of a horse box.

There are vehicles around which have been converted for use as mobile dressing rooms for the likes of the BBC etc when they are filming on location.

I hope this is helpful, and good luck, you certainly seem to have thought it through.

 

[MikeJ]

This sounds fascinating. A common viewing area with something like one screen per driver, plus a screen showing individual locations of each car would give the people queuing something to watch, and also generate interest from passers by. Closest thing I've seen to this is a big aircraft simulator on the USS Hornet in San Diego, which allowed people to dogfight with each other.

 

[DazRave]

I had the opportunity to try an F1 simulator at a logistics trade show in Peterborough a couple of years ago. I was able to race against one of the other managers, and we went back for another go. They weren't charging, as they were networking for customers. It was generating a lot of interest, although I must admit I felt sick after the second visit ;-)

Was it a motion simulator too? I went to the F1 Belgium GP in Spa last year and had a go of an F1 simulator there. I wasn't best impressed to be honest. I'm not really interested in motion simulators as most professional (yes, there are certain places you can be a pro at this) simulator drivers would rather not be thrown around while they drive. I'd rather use the system to focus on the basics of improving your racing line, hitting apexes, overtaking and general handling of a car (which can be simulated quite accurately) in the intention most people will then go on to try a real car for the fuller experience.

The simulator that was at the Grand Prix that day was free to anyone who bought something $25 or more from one of the merchandise stores. It was extremely busy over the entire weekend. I got talking to the guy in charge of it (thought i'd do a bit of digging) and they were just an events/marketing company with the intention of data harvesting (since everyone had to sign up before having a go of the simulator, which is also what my own system can do).

There were two simulators set up in a trailer which was custom made, with the side folding out like a stage, with broad steps to ground level.

This was a proper HGV unit & Trailer, and would have cost some serious money, but there are older trailers around which can be picked up for a reasonable cost. As well as the simulators, it had some tables, food & drink, and sales literature etc.

I've HEAVILY looked into bespoke built trailers as well as converted older ones, big and small. It's my most preferred option so far after talking with a company who build them as well as have a Motorsport focused sister company (which might come in useful in the long run!). Pricey though, so i'd have to have a solid business plan and work extremely hard hitting the ground running if i went down that route.. i'm really unsure of where to get investment for such a thing too.

As the previous poster mentioned, you could hire a unit with driver depending on frequency etc. or if you or a family member have 7.5 tonne entitlement you could look at a restricted operators license and something the size of a horse box.

I've not actually got the 7.5 tonne entitlement.. but i've already looked into the cost of upgrading my licence after a day of training and an exam at the end. It's not really very pricey to upgrade and probably worth doing anyway. I'm still wondering whether I could pull off a stylish looking converted caravan. Since they are cheap to get hold of (especially since I don't need the internals of one!). Worried It would just look like a repainted caravan with the windows blacked out though!

There are vehicles around which have been converted for use as mobile dressing rooms for the likes of the BBC etc when they are filming on location.

I hope this is helpful, and good luck, you certainly seem to have thought it through.

I'd not thought of such vehicles, my current lookup list was used Signle/Double decker buses, Coaches, Caravans and exhibition trailers... oh and a pretty good sized mobile library too. I'll have to have if i can see any mobile dressing room etc.

Thank's for the words of encouragement and helpful advice... again, it's pointed out a few areas i didn't think of....

Not to purposely quote Tesco, but, every little helps!

 

[DazRave]

This sounds fascinating. A common viewing area with something like one screen per driver, plus a screen showing individual locations of each car would give the people queuing something to watch, and also generate interest from passers by. Closest thing I've seen to this is a big aircraft simulator on the USS Hornet in San Diego, which allowed people to dogfight with each other.

Actually, each driver will feel as if they are in a car, the Oculus Rift will be a cheaper and overall more immersive experience then a large TV per driver.

Here's a video of the driver's perspective when wearing the Oculus Rift:

And here's a video of someone wearing one and what they see in a flight simulator:

So my intention was a large screen display near by where I hope a queue would form as well as an additional display showing current lap times etc of the cars out on track. Exactly what you would expect to see if you were on the pit wall of a Formula One Grand Prix!

 

[MikeJ]

Actually, each driver will feel as if they are in a car, the Oculus Rift will be a cheaper and overall more immersive experience then a large TV per driver.

Yes, sorry what I meant was allowing the public to also see what the drivers currently saw, so they could get a feel of what the experience was like.

 

[DazRave]

Yes, sorry what I meant was allowing the public to also see what the drivers currently saw, so they could get a feel of what the experience was like.

Ahhh, i see.. i hadn't actually thought about that. The live spectating view was going to be pretty much static TV style angles of the race. I quite like your idea though of at least displaying what the drivers are seeing by moving their heads!

 

[Excel Expert]

You might enjoy this vloggers videos. He vlogs about tech and gaming, but he is also building a very similar rig in his home. He hasnt got the movement sorted yet but I believe the rest of the set up is very similar.

 

[DazRave]

already a subscriber, but thank you.

Just thought i'd mention this again though, it's not the simulator rig that is a USP, as anyone with a little research etc can build a great driving sim rig... it's the system to link multiple rigs together and the CRM that goes with it which provides the USP to my concept.

 

[DazRave]

I've decided, after a short discussion with Dan Izzard, to enter 'The Pitch 2014' with my driving simulator concept.

I'll try and keep this thread alive (that is, if people are actually interested!) as much as i can, as already with just a few replies i've gained some great feedback!

P.S Apologies for the double posting!

 

[Excel Expert]

I for one would be interested in hearing how this one goes.

 

[MikeJ]

Me too. I'd actually be quite interested in investing, if you get that far.

As an aside, I've just downloaded a beta version of Elite, which was crowd-funded. Having that on a multi player rig would be fun. Have you considered having the system multi-functional, so you can host different games? (sorry for confusing matters here...)

 

[DazRave]

Me too. I'd actually be quite interested in investing, if you get that far.

As an aside, I've just downloaded a beta version of Elite, which was crowd-funded. Having that on a multi player rig would be fun. Have you considered having the system multi-functional, so you can host different games? (sorry for confusing matters here...)

Hi again Mike,

I have sort of thought about it being multi-functional. The system started out as a personal project/hobby and so was originally built for the (now quite old) rFactor 1. I'm fairly certain that rFactor2 will also work with the system after some minor tweaks too*.

I think the key word here is 'Simulation'. The rigs as well as the system have been designed and developed with realism in mind, and with that being said, most "games" won't feel right as they are too much like an arcade.

The overall goal i have in mind is to become a cost effective alternative to other entry levels of motorsport i.e. Karting or perhaps even banger/stock car racing. To achieve this i'll need to set a very fixed standard level. Although being able to run different 'games' may well be possible, i want to stick to one specific simulation and instead change the race formats, vehicles and circuits used.

Don't get me wrong, i don't want to rule out the casual, average gamer by focusing on just motorsport enthusiasts. Settings applied within the simulator and system will mean i can adjust the level of difficulty depending on the user. Hopefully this will allow me to offer the very same professional system to a wide range of different markets.

Primary revenue streams

1. Hosting ‘pay per drive’ sessions at motor shows.
2. Corporate hospitality hire.
3. Private event hire.
4. Exhibition and trade stand hire.

Future revenue streams

1. Professionally run tournaments and competitions.
2. Promotional marketing and sponsorship deals.
3. Staff team building exercise packages.
4. Motorsport racing lessons and young driver development programs.

*The only reason i've not attempted rFactor2 yet is because the developers, Image Space Incorporated, don't currently have commercial licenses easily available and there is also far more content, cars and tracks for the earlier version then the new edition.

 

[MikeJ]

As I was typing that, I was doubting what I was saying. Much better to do one thing well, than try to be all things to all men.

 

[DazRave]

As I was typing that, I was doubting what I was saying. Much better to do one thing well, than try to be all things to all men.

haha, If only i had a pound for the amount of times i've typed something out and hit post while doubting myself.........i'd have some capital for this idea!

 

[vvaannmmaann]

Am I alone in wondering as to why EE knows about "Goat Simulators" ?

 

[DazRave]

Am I alone in wondering as to why EE knows about "Goat Simulators" ?

haha... I'm pretty impressed he knows about it to be honest!

http://www.goat-simulator.com/

 

[Excel Expert]

LOL

I've been a massive gamer since the 70's. In my time I've just about owned every gaming platform going and now I'm busy introducing my grand kids to gaming.

Goat Simulator is one of daftest, silliest and pointless games out there but it is a great laugh to play with the grandkids. Reminds me a lot of "Pain" on the PS3 - another equally pointless but funny game.

 

[DazRave]

I think convincing corporate clients this is the way to go rather than go jarring is going to be rather difficult.

Other than that I don't see any issue with you idea, without seeing mire of your market research / financials.

I think convincing corporate clients this is the way to go rather than go jarring is going to be rather difficult. Other than that I don't see any issue with you idea, without seeing mire of your market research.

This can't be just a freaky coincidence? . . . . .

 

[DazRave]

Not quite sure if i'm allowed too...

But just thought i'd give this topic a bit of a mid week bump.

 

[garyk]

I'd be interested in this as an avid and long time geoff crammond grand prix player (right since v1) and gran turismo since the early days. I think its got legs and you are right the social aspect, 2, 3, 4 multi-player is where its at. Probably more fun than a single player setup. In fact I'm hoping to have a go on this tonight http://www.bodyflight.co.uk/race

I'd agree with Excel Expert there might be a market for these pre-built for hardcore gamers.

Gary

 

[DazRave]

I'd be interested in this as an avid and long time geoff crammond grand prix player (right since v1) and gran turismo since the early days. I think its got legs and you are right the social aspect, 2, 3, 4 multi-player is where its at. Probably more fun than a single player setup. In fact I'm hoping to have a go on this tonight http://www.bodyflight.co.uk/race

I'd agree with Excel Expert there might be a market for these pre-built for hardcore gamers.

Gary

Thank you for your reply Gary!

I had yet to come across Bodyflight's 'RaceHouse' so that is a huge benefit for me to add to my list of possible competitors. If you don't mind, could you report back here with how your experience goes? All the usual stuff, what you liked, what nagged you, what you would like else would be nice etc!

I guess i can only offer you a free session in return, if I ever get this concept off the ground! haha.

 

[garyk]

Hey Daz,

Sure report!

OK I got to have a 15 minute session which they normally charge £15 for. They also do 1 hour session for 3 people which is £40 which is pretty good value.

The guy running it was extremely helpful and thorough. I'm not sure what software it was running but its smart kit where you can adjust how vigorous to make the movement of the chair, its like on a platform that moves and shakes. Its the first time I have been on a 3 screen sim and I found it abit off putting to get my lines and apexes spot on, it sometimes felt like the car was drifting when I'm not sure if it was (bearing in mind it was a single seat race car).

They were having a lap time challenge that had been running on the evening and so the course was fixed as 'lime rock', never even heard of it but after a few laps I got my eye in. I would rather have done a circuit I knew really well like brands, silverstone or spa although the guy did say they have those too.

Overall its great I think if you were head to head with mates I can see how competitive it would be. I was chuffed I got the second fastest time of the night, only second to a guy who goes there every week. Would I do it again? You bet. Would I do it *regularly*? Not so sure. I've done a reasonable amount of track days and karting and you cant really beat the real thing but obviously costs alot more!

Keep us all informed though because it is still a good idea. I'm still chuckling over the 'goat simulator' never heard of it before!

 

[DazRave]

First off Gary, THANK YOU!

Your mini race report is most helpful! haha.

Some questions, if i may...

Hey Daz,
OK I got to have a 15 minute session which they normally charge £15 for. They also do 1 hour session for 3 people which is £40 which is pretty good value.

My local Daytona karting track (Manchester) offer Arrive and Drive sessions (time trials) at £20 for 20 minutes. That's petrol engined karting at a pound a minute. So personally, £15 for 15 minutes on a simulator slightly too high in my opinion! Although, i know of the motion simulator rig they are using and it's quite expensive.

Although, I presume that's £40 per person for the hour? Which is not bad at all.

The guy running it was extremely helpful and thorough. I'm not sure what software it was running but its smart kit where you can adjust how vigorous to make the movement of the chair, its like on a platform that moves and shakes. Its the first time I have been on a 3 screen sim and I found it abit off putting to get my lines and apexes spot on, it sometimes felt like the car was drifting when I'm not sure if it was (bearing in mind it was a single seat race car).

Did the guy come across like he's into his motorsport? Did he perhaps offer any driving tips/come across like he really knew his stuff?

What was the venue itself like? Was it themed in any way?

Was the steering wheel also attached to the motion rig? I've seen motion rigs in the past that don't have the steering wheel attached which really kills the whole experience.
(Here's an example of what i mean. The helmet mounted oculus rift is certainly something i would like to be able to provide!)

They were having a lap time challenge that had been running on the evening and so the course was fixed as 'lime rock', never even heard of it but after a few laps I got my eye in. I would rather have done a circuit I knew really well like brands, silverstone or spa although the guy did say they have those too.

So were you out on track with 2 other drivers, only not racing just putting in hot laps? Or were you driving on your own?

It sounds to me (and judging by the track you were on and the photos on their website) you were playing the racing simulator rFactor, which is the same 'game' that i've built my system to work with.

Overall its great I think if you were head to head with mates I can see how competitive it would be. I was chuffed I got the second fastest time of the night, only second to a guy who goes there every week. Would I do it again? You bet. Would I do it *regularly*? Not so sure. I've done a reasonable amount of track days and karting and you cant really beat the real thing but obviously costs a lot more!

Well done on getting the second fastest, especially considering the other guy is a regular. Were you very far off of his laptime?

After you had finished your session, were you given anything or are you able to review your lap times, sector times etc back?

Do you think if you were given a printed Race Report at the end with your session data it would add to the experience? and perhaps even encourage you to have another go to try and beat your personal best?

I'm a very regular karter and have been on a fair few track days too, and i totally agree that you can't beat the real thing, which is why i don't intend too. I hope my own version of a racing simulator will actually compliment real racing instead of mimic it. The hope is that it's a cheap way to practice and develop driving skills before then getting out on track.

Keep us all informed though because it is still a good idea. I'm still chuckling over the 'goat simulator' never heard of it before!

I will do. Thank you ever so much for reporting back. I can't think you enough!

 

[garyk]

First off Gary, THANK YOU!

Your mini race report is most helpful! haha.
Some questions, if i may...
My local Daytona karting track (Manchester) offer Arrive and Drive sessions (time trials) at £20 for 20 minutes. That's petrol engined karting at a pound a minute. So personally, £15 for 15 minutes on a simulator slightly too high in my opinion! Although, i know of the motion simulator rig they are using and it's quite expensive.

Although, I presume that's £40 per person for the hour? Which is not bad at all.

I think so, actually it wasn't clear if that was per person or all 3, seems a bit cheap for all 3.

Did the guy come across like he's into his motorsport? Did he perhaps offer any driving tips/come across like he really knew his stuff?

He was keen but quite young.

What was the venue itself like? Was it themed in any way?

Small! But functional.

Was the steering wheel also attached to the motion rig? I've seen motion rigs in the past that don't have the steering wheel attached which really kills the whole experience.
(Here's an example of what i mean. The helmet mounted oculus rift is certainly something i would like to be able to provide!)

It was, rigs were pretty good, felt very sturdy.

So were you out on track with 2 other drivers, only not racing just putting in hot laps? Or were you driving on your own?

Hot lapping.

It sounds to me (and judging by the track you were on and the photos on their website) you were playing the racing simulator rFactor, which is the same 'game' that i've built my system to work with.

I know of rFactor but had never played it.

Well done on getting the second fastest, especially considering the other guy is a regular. Were you very far off of his laptime?

Nope, 2 seconds.

After you had finished your session, were you given anything or are you able to review your lap times, sector times etc back?

No, just wrote times on a slip you could pin to a board a la Top Gear.

Do you think if you were given a printed Race Report at the end with your session data it would add to the experience? and perhaps even encourage you to have another go to try and beat your personal best?

Absolutely, full telemetry I want! At least see what speeds I was doing on what bends.

I'm a very regular karter and have been on a fair few track days too, and i totally agree that you can't beat the real thing, which is why i don't intend too. I hope my own version of a racing simulator will actually compliment real racing instead of mimic it. The hope is that it's a cheap way to practice and develop driving skills before then getting out on track.

Well if you have that experience sounds like you will work hard to make the sim as enjoyable as possible.

 

[DazRave]

Bit of a large bump to push this thread back up again... however I thought it would be appropriate to mention that my business idea has made it onto The Pitch 100 shortlist.


@garyk - I never thanked you for replying with the answers to my questions! You were a big help.

 

[garyk]

Nice one @DazRave! do keep us posted!

all the best

Gary

 

[AllUpHere]

I'm not a gamer or expert in the field, but just wanted to say what a nice change this thread makes from all the other 'I have a business idea' threads. A plan for a business, intelligently thought out by a member who obviously knows what he's doing, whilst at the same time being receptive to the ideas of others. Very refreshing.

Best of luck with your business.

 

[DazRave]

@AllUpHere - Thank you for your comment, I hadn't expected the amount of positive feedback I have received so far and certainly didn't expect to be shortlisted for The Pitch.

Surprisingly, I was actually hoping for negative comments so I could use them to find flaws etc in my concept! haha

 

[AllUpHere]

@AllUpHere -

Surprisingly, I was actually hoping for negative comments so I could use them to find flaws etc in my concept! haha

Fair enough, your idea stinks.

On a more serious note, I don't have the knowledge of the subject matter to know if on an operational level the idea is good or not. What I do know is that (if the techy side is sound) from a marketing perspective, it certainly has huge potential. It's one of those business types that lend themselves very well to the most efficient and effective forms of marketing. I'm sure you will have great fun with it.

 

[DazRave]

Fair enough, your idea stinks.

Back to the drawing board i go then!

It's one of those business types that lend themselves very well to the most efficient and effective forms of marketing.

That's actually an interesting point to make. Do you have any experience yourself in event type marketing (since i notice marketing is your game of choice)?

 

[WillLoxley]

Congrats. Can I ask what you had to provide to the Pitch 100 guys to enter?

 

[AllUpHere]

Back to the drawing board i go then!



That's actually an interesting point to make. Do you have any experience yourself in event type marketing (since i notice marketing is your game of choice)?

Yes, it is the type of business I work with. I'd be happy to help you bounce a few ideas around if you like.

 

[DazRave]

Congrats. Can I ask what you had to provide to the Pitch 100 guys to enter?

Pretty much everything that shows on my Pitch profile found here plus a little bit more that they have not published.

Don't forget to vote!

 

[DazRave]

Yes, it is the type of business I work with. I'd be happy to help you bounce a few ideas around if you like.

Sounds great! I'll PM you sometime during this week!