Automobilista 2 has just rolled out its V1.6.9.5 update, introducing two major formulaic novelties: Formula Hybrid Gen1 and the complete overhaul of the ex-F-V12, now christened Formula Edge. Make no mistake about it: Reiza Studios is continuing to refine its simulators, particularly for single-seaters, a direction that seems to be confirmed with this first in a series of updates focusing on these categories.

Formula Hybrid Gen1: the hybrid era makes its debut

Formula Hybrid Gen1 is clearly inspired by the F1 single-seaters of 2016, marking the arrival of hybrid powertrains. These cars, powerful with almost 1000 hp, offer an interesting challenge. Their aerodynamics, less generous than those of subsequent generations, mean that you’ll have to tame this cavalry on their mechanical supports alone when exiting corners, as the instant torque of the electric block can easily send the rear end into perdition if you’re too brutal on the right pedal. You’ll need to manage your foot and MGU-K carefully to stay out of trouble. These cars are offered free of charge in the base game.

Formula Edge: the diversity of the ’90s at last represented

The old F-V12, iconic but solitary, gives way to Formula Edge, a category that now brings together three distinct models. The “Edge” refers to the sharp drop in downforce at the time, which made these cars very demanding.

• F-Edge Model 1 (Ex-V12): The most powerful, still here but with a visual facelift. It’s the most progressive of the three, with smoother reactions, making it potentially the easiest to exploit over time, even if optimizing setups may prove trickier to find the last few tenths on any type of track.
• F-Edge Model 2 (V10): A nervous monster. Inspired by the Benetton B195 and Williams FW17, this V10 version is the most twitchy and demanding to drive. It requires velvety hands and great precision to avoid biting the dust. But in the right hands, it offers the highest performance potential. We can already imagine the cold sweats involved in keeping the V10 at its ideal torque range, while avoiding oversteer on corner exits.
• F-Edge Model 3 (V8): The most accessible of the trio. Less powerful, more fuel-efficient and less cutting-edge at the limit, it will enable more drivers to enter the world of 90s single-seaters without too much frustration. An excellent gateway to the V10.

These three Formula Edge variants are also included free of charge in the base game. This update is the first in a series focusing on formulas, with a second iteration planned for the coming weeks. What’s more, Automobilista 2 is already integrating early physical revisions for future V1.7 across a wide range of categories, from LMDh to GT3, prototypes and other silhouettes. The groundwork continues.