Fanatec has been renewing its line-up for some years now, starting with the launch of its ClubSport DD and DD+ mid-range bases. Developing 12 and 15 nm of constant torque respectively, these two bases have made many sim-racers happy, and it was time for Fanatec to give its top-of-the-range Podiums a facelift.

Until now, only 2 bases were part of the Podium range: the DD1 and DD2, with 20 and 25 nm peak torque. The rest were specific to GT and endurance racing.

Today, Fanatec has unveiled a brand-new base, the Podium DD, and above all a top-of-the-range crankset, the Podium Pedals, a brand-new addition to the range.

As for the base, this one has a design that tends towards the ClubSport DD, which makes a change from the ones it replaces. The base is smaller than the DD2, and features aluminum fins that give it a rather aggressive look in my opinion, as well as helping to cool the electric motor.

Speaking of the latter, it enables the base to develop 25 nm of torque at constant speed, with 33 nm at overshoot (or overboost). That’s just enormous for sim-racing, but this base is aimed at a very specific clientele. What’s more, the device incorporates FullForce technology for extremely fine detail, thanks in particular to the wider operating range of the electric motor.

As for the crankset, it’s brand-new and, above all, strong. This crankset was developed in partnership with professional riders, and incorporates a forged aluminum brake pedal, enabling it to withstand 200 KG of force on the Load Cell. The latter is based on an elastomer technology that is adjustable to offer granularity in braking pressure, and also to find the right feel under your foot.

Alongside the brake pedal, we have 2 others for the gas pedal and clutch, which are made of aluminum, this time cast and machined using CNC machines. Both pedals are, of course, adjustable in terms of the force required to depress them, as well as being independent, and the same applies to the brake. It’s quite simply a magnificent sim-racing peripheral, and I’m really looking forward to testing it to see what it has to offer compared with the ClubSport V3.

Let’s talk about price and availability. As far as the price is concerned, Fanatec has not yet given any details, which is to be expected. As for availability, the German brand has announced Q1 2026, i.e. the first quarter of next year, which gives us a maximum of 5 months to see these two new peripherals land on the manufacturer’s store and on our setups.