Introduced in the 2007-01 season, Formula BMW mirrors the real series of the same name that is today the major entry-point in racing for young racers around the world. For the 2008-02 season and beyond, the SimCar FBMW series will be rebranded "Champ3", yet the series will continue as it has since inauguration.
Powered by the iDT Formula BMW mod for rFactor, this series is the first step in the SimCar ladder system, and is open to all drivers regarless of experience. Like the real-world FBMW cars, these have front mono-shock suspension and limited setup changes that allow drivers to focus on the racing rather than setup development.
The inaugural series Champion, in the 2007-01 season, was Rik Zeppelin.
Format
The Formula BMW series runs every other Monday with a longer break at the end of each season and at the mid point of the season (see SimCar schedule). Each week there are two races, race one's grid is formed from qualifying; race two's from the results of race one.
- 50% damage
- Aids allowed; auto clutch & auto blip only
At road courses:
- Qualifying = private, 15 minutes session, 8 laps maximum
- Race = formation lap + standing start
- Race length = 37.5 miles (rounded to nearest lap)
- No yellow flags
At Ovals:
- Qualifying = private, 4 laps (Out lap, 2 flying laps, in lap. Fastest lap counts)
- Race = formation lap behind safety car then rolling start
- Race length = 50 miles at 1 mile or less ovals, 75 miles at ovals more than 1 mile long
- Full Yellow flag rules enabled (no lucky dogs or double file restarts)
- Note; Oval races have a time limit in case of multiple yellow flag periods
Race night schedule
- PRACTICE session starts approx 6.30pm EST*
- QUALIFYING starts 9.00pm EST*
- DRIVER BRIEFING/WARMUP approx 9.15pm EST*
- RACE 1 approx 9.30pm EST*
- RACE 2 approx 10.15pm EST*
(*Times EDT during summer)
Last updated 15 April 2008