Fuel Strategy in 2023.1 is the latest update to DRE that brings a range of new features and improvements to the table. In a recent interview with the Lone Road iRacers Podcast, I shed some light on what this update entails. Let’s dive deeper into the fuel strategy enhancements and features introduced in DRE 2023.1.

Overhauled Fuel Calculations

One of the standout improvements in DRE 2023.1 is the complete overhaul of fuel calculations. I identified numerous edge cases and scenarios that were previously not covered or resolved properly. For instance, issues like the engine starting to splutter at a certain fuel level were not taken into account. As a result, the displayed fuel tank size in iRacing did not reflect the actual amount of fuel available.

With the latest update, DRE now includes these important factors in its fuel calculations. The fuel window, which denotes the earliest point in the session when you can refuel enough to complete it, is now accurately determined. This means that in endurance races, such as a 24-hour race, DRE can provide real-time insights on when you should pit to finish the race within a specific timeframe.

A Step Beyond Auto-fueling

While iRacing’s new auto-fueling feature provides a basic fueling option, DRE takes fuel strategy a few steps further. It offers a live overview of your entire remaining fuel strategy, including information on when you can pit for fuel and the fuel window. This comprehensive approach gives you an edge in planning your refueling stops, ensuring you only race with the fuel you need.

DRE also excels in supporting multiple pit stops by smartly adjusting the fuel for each stop. It optimizes your fuel consumption for the race, allowing you to trim it down to just what is necessary. Additionally, DRE provides the option to add a fuel buffer if desired, ensuring you have some extra fuel on hand if the situation demands it.

Improved Endurance Race Support

Endurance races, such as the 24-hour or 12-hour events, pose unique challenges as multiple drivers are involved, each with their own driving style and fuel usage. DRE addresses this issue by allowing drivers to share fuel and tire data automatically. With all teammates using DRE, you get a complete picture of the car’s performance even when you’re not behind the wheel.

When a new driver takes over, DRE quickly adapts to their different fuel burn rates and adjusts the fuel usage calculations accordingly. This ensures that the fuel strategy remains accurate and responsive to each driver’s style. Over a span of 10 laps, DRE employs a smooth running average to fine-tune the calculations further. In future updates, DRE aims to incorporate individual driving styles, enabling more accurate fuel predictions based on each driver’s preferences.

Fuel Override

DRE 2023.1 introduces several quality-of-life features that make fueling a seamless process. One notable addition is the ability to override the auto-fueling process. If you feel that the recommended fuel amount is not to your liking, you have the freedom to set a custom value. DRE acknowledges this override and will stay off the controls until the next stint, allowing you to race with your desired fuel amount.

I’ve made big efforts to improve the usability and user experience of fueling with DRE. This makes it a more comprehensive and convenient option compared to the basic auto-fueling feature provided by iRacing.

Try improved Fuel Strategy now!

DRE 2023.1 brings substantial improvements to fuel strategy calculations and support for endurance races. With a live overview of your remaining fuel strategy, voice commands and alerts, the ability to adjust fuel amounts for each pit stop, and automatic adaptation to different driving styles, DRE empowers racing enthusiasts with a powerful fueling toolset. Whether you’re participating in a short sprint or a grueling endurance race, DRE ensures that you have the optimal fuel strategy in place.

To experience these new fuel strategy features firsthand, update to DRE 2023.1 and take your racing to the next level.