Introducing AUTOSHIFT83, the automatic transmission for simulators

The future of virtual shifting is here

The world of simulation is constantly chasing that elusive “perfect” feeling – the moment when the boundary between the digital world and the physical cockpit is completely blurred. For years, the sim racing community has been divided between purists of H-pattern manual gearboxes and enthusiasts of paddle-shift gear changes. However, there has been a significant gap in the market for those wishing to replicate modern everyday vehicles, heavy goods vehicles or high-performance automatic sports cars. Today, at Sim83, we are closing that gap. We are thrilled to present our latest upgrade: the USB automatic gearbox, a versatile and high-performance peripheral device compatible with our entire range of simulators.

This isn’t just another plastic accessory. It is a precision-engineered tool that brings a new layer of tactical realism to your driving experience. Whether you’re navigating the narrow streets of a European city in a truck simulator or practising precision parking for your test at a real driving school, the tactile feedback of the dedicated automatic gearbox transforms the entire dynamic of the cockpit. By integrating this module into our devices, we ensure that every driver – from the casual enthusiast to the professional trainee – has access to the most authentic controls.

Engineering realism into every movement

When we set out to design this upgrade, we studied the mechanical nuances that make driving a vehicle with an automatic gearbox unique. It’s not just a matter of shifting the car into “Drive” and forgetting about it. It’s about safety protocols, mechanical locks and the specific resistance you feel when moving through the gear gates. Our new gearbox incorporates a safety key mechanism that mimics the real-world requirement to press a button or trigger to move from neutral (N) to drive (D) or from neutral (N) to reverse (R). This prevents accidental gear changes during intense manoeuvres and forces the driver to act deliberately, just as in a real car.

The build quality reflects SIM83’s commitment to durability. Mounted on sturdy aluminium profiles, the gearbox sits firmly at the driver’s side and resists the flexing often found in entry-level equipment. In the world of high-end simulation, rigidity is key. If your controls move when you press them, the realism of the simulation is immediately compromised. Our USB gearbox is designed to function as a permanent, integrated part of the simulator’s chassis. For more information about our products, please visit our product page.

Versatile performance: From automatic to sequential

One of the standout features of this new upgrade is its versatility. We understand that sim racers often switch between different disciplines. One hour you might be hauling 20 tonnes of cargo in Euro Truck Simulator 2, the next you might be tackling a rally track in Assetto Corsa. To make this possible, our gearbox isn’t limited to just automatic gear selection. It includes a dedicated sequential mode with two separate, highly tactile upshift and downshift buttons.

This dual design saves a significant amount of space in your cockpit. Instead of cluttering your setup with multiple gearboxes, you can simply switch between modes depending on the vehicle you’re currently ‘driving’. The sequential buttons provide a satisfying click, ensuring you never miss a gear change during a high-stakes race. This level of mechanical customisation is becoming the gold standard in the industry, as highlighted by experts on the Assetto Corsa Official portal.

More than just shifting: Integrated handbrake and custom buttons

In our quest for a comprehensive control solution, we didn’t stop at just the gearshift. This module also includes a simulated handbrake function. In many modern vehicles, particularly those with automatic gearboxes, the electronic parking brake is located in the immediate vicinity of the gearbox. By integrating this into our USB unit, we ensure a streamlined, ergonomic experience. No more reaching across the table or searching for a small button on the steering wheel; the handbrake is exactly where your muscle memory expects it to be.

In addition, we have added two extra programmable buttons to the gearbox housing. These are like a blank canvas for the user. In a racing context, they can be used for ‘Push-to-Talk’ communication, light signals or a speed limiter in the pits. For truck enthusiasts, they are ideal for engaging the engine brake or differential lock. The ability to map these functions directly to the gearbox unit means you can keep your eyes on the road at all times, whilst your hands remain close to the primary controls.

A bridge to driving schools and professional training

Although we love racing, at SIM83 we are always advocates of using simulations for practical training. As the automotive industry is moving strongly towards automatic gearboxes in passenger cars, it is crucial that driving simulators reflect this reality. Our new gearbox enables driving schools to provide students with a realistic environment for practising the basics of vehicle control.

Learning the sequence of starting the car, applying the brake, shifting the gearbox from ‘Park’ to ‘Drive’, and operating the handbrake are critical steps for every new driver. By providing a mechanical “safety key” for gear changes, we offer a training tool that is far superior to using a keyboard or standard game controller. This commitment to educational accuracy is why we are constantly expanding our product range, ensuring that every niche of the driving world is covered.

Seamless integration and connectivity

We know that nothing kills the excitement of new gear faster than a complicated setup process. That’s why the SIM83 automatic gearbox is a ‘plug-and-play’ device via a USB connection. Windows recognises it as a standard gaming controller, meaning it is compatible with virtually every modern driving title on the market. From Assetto Corsa and iRacing to BeamNG.drive and American Truck Simulator, setup is as simple as mapping inputs in the game’s options menu.

The gearbox design is optimised for our T-tube frames, but its modular nature means it can be adapted to various custom setups. We’ve ensured the cable routing is clean and the footprint is minimal, allowing it to sit comfortably alongside your existing steering wheel and pedals. For those who wish to stay up to date with the latest software compatibility and news from the world of sim racing, we recommend following the RaceDepartment portal, which is one of the leading sources for simulation updates.

Why choose the Sim83 gearbox upgrade?

Choosing hardware for your simulator means finding the right balance between price, performance and durability. The Sim83 USB automatic gearbox offers:

• Realistic safety mechanisms: The gear lock prevents errors that would occur in reality.
• Dual functionality: Seamless switching between automatic and sequential modes.
• Ergonomic efficiency: Integrated handbrake and programmable buttons within easy reach.
• Robust construction: Designed for durability during professional training and competitive racing.
• Universal compatibility: Works with all our simulators and all major PC titles.

In the fast-changing world of sim racing, the right tools are what make the difference between a podium finish and a battle in the midfield. More importantly, in a training environment, the right tools build the right habits. We are proud to offer this upgrade to our community and to continue our mission of providing the most immersive and functional simulators on the market.