Product Overview
The Next Level Racing® ES1 Haptic Seat combines the acclaimed ES1 bucket-style design with the proven haptic technology of the HF8 Pro, delivering a fully integrated seat built for high-performance simulation. Featuring the same eight high-torque haptic motors found in the HF8 Pro — delivering 200% more torque, 400% more power, and 60% faster motor speed — the ES1 Haptic provides detailed, real-time feedback that transforms every gear shift, curb strike, and surface change into true-to-life sensation.
“The next level of realism the Haptic Seats gives you is amazing. I particularly love the feelings through the gear shifts, ripple-strips and loss of traction. Makes it much easier to judge.” Alex Gardner, Professional Race Car Driver
Each motor is embedded directly into the seat shell, ensuring balanced, low-latency feedback without vibration loss, while the durable racing suede fabric and cold-moulded foam offer long-lasting comfort and stability during endurance sessions. With side-mount compatibility for precise positioning and easy integration into professional cockpits, the ES1 Haptic combines precision, control, and immersion—defining a new standard for competitive sim racing.
Leading Features
- Unlike traditional haptic pads, the ES1 Haptic integrates its eight high-torque motors directly into the bucket seat shell, delivering precise, low-latency feedback that follows every movement of the vehicle. This fully embedded design eliminates shifting or vibration loss, ensuring that every sensation — from tyre slip to kerb strike — is felt exactly where it happens. The durable racing suede fabric provides superior grip and comfort, while cold-moulded foam maintains firm support through long sessions. Designed for maximum body stability and endurance, the ES1 Haptic gives drivers the confidence and connection needed for competitive simulation.
- With full support for Next Level Racing® HFS Software and SimHub integration, users can fine-tune all eight feedback zones for total control over their racing experience. Adjust motor strength, response, and trigger behaviour to replicate effects such as engine RPM, road texture, braking, and collisions. The HFS software runs at 75 frames per second, providing ultra-low latency and highly accurate feedback. A built-in physical controller allows quick intensity adjustments. For console* use, the 3.5 mm audio input converts in-game audio into dynamic vibration feedback for racing, flight, or multimedia experiences.
*Note: When using on console, haptic feedback is generated through audio-based vibration only. Individual motor control and telemetry-based effects are ONLY available on PC via HFS Software or SimHub.
- The ES1 Haptic is designed for seamless integration with a wide range of professional simulator setups. Its side-mount compatibility allows precise positioning and angle adjustment with most industry-standard seat brackets, while the compact, lightweight design ensures easy installation across popular cockpits. The haptic system complements existing motion and tactile solutions, creating a unified feedback ecosystem for serious racers. With its rigid shell, ergonomic shape, and high-performance haptic technology, the ES1 Haptic delivers unmatched control, comfort, and immersion — built for the most demanding sim-racing environments.
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
| Dimensions (L×W×H) | 77 × 53.5 × 85 cm |
| Seat Type | Fixed-back Bucket Seat with Haptic Included |
| Upholstery | Hard-wearing, PU molded foam racing suede fabric |
| Structure | Fiberglass-Reinforced Polymer |
| Weight Capacity | Up to 150 kg |
| Waist Compatibility | Up to 42″ (106 cm) |
| Mounting Type | Side Mounting (Requires Brackets) |
Dimensions
- Not adjustable, fixed-back bucket seat
- Compatible with side-mount seat brackets for angle mounting
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What makes the ES1 Haptic Seat different from a standard sim racing bucket seat?
A: The ES1 Haptic Seat features fully integrated haptic feedback, meaning the vibration motors are built directly into the seat rather than added as an external pad.
It uses eight high-torque motors powered by HF8 Pro technology, delivering precise, low-latency feedback that simulates effects like gear shifts, road texture, braking, and traction loss in real time.
This results in more accurate and evenly distributed feedback compared to traditional add-on haptic solutions.
Q: How does the haptic feedback system work?
A: The seat’s eight embedded motors operate at up to 75 FPS, translating in-game telemetry into physical sensations across different areas of the seat.
Through Next Level Racing HFS Software or SimHub, users can customise each feedback zone independently, adjusting intensity and effects like:
- Engine RPM
- Kerb strikes
- Braking forces
- Road surface detail
- Traction loss
Console users can also connect via a 3.5 mm audio input, which converts game audio into vibration feedback.
Q: Is the ES1 Haptic comfortable for longer sessions?
A: Despite packing eight motors inside it like some kind of mechanical octopus, the seat is built for endurance.
It features:
- Rigid bucket-style shell for stability under heavy braking
- Cold-moulded foam for long-session support
- Racing suede fabric for grip and reduced slippage
The integrated design ensures the motors don’t shift or create pressure points, maintaining consistent comfort during extended use.
Compatibility
| Cockpit Model | Compatibility |
| GTElite | ✅ Out of the box (with included side brackets) |
| F-GT Elite Lite / F-GT Elite / F-GT Elite 160 | ✅ Out of the box (with included side brackets) |
| GTElite Lite / GTtrack | ⚠ Requires Universal Seat Brackets |
| F-GT | ⚠ Requires Universal Seat Brackets and shifter assembly removed |
| GTRacer / GTRacer 2.0 | ❌ Not compatible |
| Go Kart Plus | ❌ Not compatible |
| Victory | ❌ Not compatible |
Legend:
✅ Compatible out of the box (with seat brackets)
⚠ Requires Next Level Racing’s Universal Seat Brackets (Purchased Separately)
❌ Not compatible
Troubleshooting
Q: Haptic feedback isn’t working
- Check power and connections: ensure the seat is plugged into a power source and the USB/3.5 mm cable is firmly connected; use different ports to ensure it is not a USB/3.5mm issue on your device.
- Verify software setup: if using PC, open Next Level Racing HFS software and confirm the seat is detected, the correct game profile is connected. Also, test the motor functionality, to ensure these are functional.
- Test audio-to-haptic input (for console/3.5 mm use) with a known working device to confirm vibration signals are being sent.
A: Ensure side brackets are installed in correct holes (multiple height options).
Q: Feedback is weak or uneven
- Open the HFS software and adjust motor intensity settings; sometimes default values may seem too low.
Q: Console-specific issues
- Use a 3.5 mm analog connection if the console isn’t recognized by USB.
- Adjust the volume/output settings in the console to ensure signals are strong enough for haptic translation.
- Verify the console supports analog audio output,
Instructions Guide & Video Links
- PDF Manual: Download ES1 Haptic Instruction Manual
-
Assembly Video:
Product Comparison
| Feature | ES1 | ES2 | EFS |
| Max Waist Size | Up to 42″ (106 cm) | Up to 42″ (106 cm) | Up to 40 inches (102 cm) |
| Fit Style | Bucket | Bucket | Bucket/Formula |
| Weight Capacity | Up to 250 kg | Up to 150 kg | Up to 250 kg |
| Upholstery | Premium Suede | High density foam and PU Leather/Suede cushioning | Thermo-formed EVA Foam with premium suede finish |
| Mounting Type | Side Mounting (Requires Brackets) | Side Mounting (Requires Brackets) | Side Mounting (Brackets included) |
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