Racing video games have come a long way from simple pixelated tracks to hyper-realistic simulations that blur the line between virtual and real-world driving. And according to a new poll conducted by Hyundai, many gamers believe those hours spent mastering the art of virtual cornering and high-speed manoeuvres are making them better drivers in the real world.
Compared to non-gamers, nearly half (48%) of British gamers who play racing video games are convinced that their virtual racing skills give them an edge behind the actual wheel. Furthermore, 65% of these gamers feel that racing video games mirror real-life driving, particularly in steering, cornering, and gear shifts. This confidence isn’t just about the thrill of speed but about their perceived improvement in driving ability.
The Real-World Impact of Virtual Racing
According to Hyundai’s survey of 1,000 drivers, many gamers are reporting tangible benefits from their time on the virtual track. Over half (52%) claim racing games have sharpened their reaction times and improved their overall safety on the road. Additionally, 42% say these games heighten their awareness of road conditions, while 39% believe they’ve become better at spotting potential hazards—skills essential for navigating today’s busy roads.
Interestingly, for many, the benefits of gaming may start young. Half of those surveyed who grew up playing racing video games believe it helped them pass their driving test quicker, with 52% saying they aced the test on their first try. It seems the virtual experience is translating to real-world readiness.
EVs Embrace the Thrill of the Game
But it’s not just the gamers who are closing the gap between simulation and reality. Hyundai has stepped into the world of virtual racing with its IONIQ 5 N, an EV designed with gaming-inspired features. Hyundai’s N Active Sound + feature brings soundscapes from the gaming world into the real-life driving experience. One of its audio profiles was originally created for the Hyundai N 2025 Vision Gran Turismo concept, ensuring that even in an electric vehicle, drivers feel the visceral thrill often associated with petrol engines.
Hyundai’s research also found that over a third of gamers are so influenced by their time spent racing virtually that it affects their choice of car model in real life. With features like N Grin Shift, the IONIQ 5 N aims to bring the adrenaline of racing games into EVs, making sure the driving experience remains exciting in the electric age.
Is Virtual Racing the Future of Driving?
With 77% of gamers reporting that virtual racing excites them more than real-life driving, manufacturers like Hyundai are keen to capture that energy and transfer it to their vehicles. The IONIQ 5 N serves as a bridge between the digital and physical worlds, promising to keep the thrill of driving alive, even as we transition to more sustainable, electric-powered vehicles.
As the lines between virtual and real driving continue to blur, the question is no longer whether gaming can improve driving skills but how manufacturers can enhance that synergy. With technology like Hyundai’s N Active Sound + and immersive EV designs, the future of driving may very well be inspired by the world of video games.
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