Posted to News on 2nd May 2025, 08:44
Engineered escapism with racing simulators
Race @ Home, founded by Bob Welland, is set to redefine the racing simulator industry by offering the ultimate experience. With a background in management accountancy and minimal knowledge of the racing simulator sphere, Bob embarked on a mission to create the best racing simulator on the market. igus products have played a crucial role in the development of Race @ Home's simulators.
The company is dedicated to providing high-quality, competitive simulators that are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing, quiet, and compact. With a commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, Race @ Home continues to push the boundaries of the racing simulator industry.
After selling his property and planning to retire, Bob purchased a motion simulator from China. However, he quickly realised the challenges and risks associated with ordering from overseas, from frequent scams to a lack of consumer protection. Sensing a reluctance from consumers to purchase equipment from overseas and determined to overcome these obstacles, Bob aimed to develop a high-quality, competitive simulator available worldwide, that would meet both him and his customers' requirements.
After eight months, the first prototype was completed. Paul Smith, a big fan of racing simulators and experienced engineer at igus, saw the potential for igus components to enhance Bob's simulator, leaving some samples for him to consider. From then on, Paul has collaborated with Bob to fine tune these simulators, offering his expertise and solutions to enhance the design.
With igus linear guides for forward and backward motion in the cross glide, polymer stock bar for the mounting supports, bespoke machine carriages running on linear rails, and tribologically optimised adhesive tape to reduce noise, these components have ensured smooth, quiet operation without the need for lubrication, significantly enhancing the user experience.
"It's great working with Paul. I like igus products; I think they're great, and they help in terms of cost of shipping too. Being lightweight, they knocked 20 kilos off our shipping weight," says Bob.
Looking ahead, Race @ Home remains committed to business as usual, with igus on standby to offer advice and key components. "Business as an SME will always be challenging," says Bob, but the company is focused on continuing to find its target audience and continuing to offer the 'best motion simulator ever made,' a goal supported by glowing reviews from many happy customers on Trustpilot.
