Atlanta, GA — SimCraft, the leader in advanced motion simulation systems for driver development and vehicle engineering, today announced its support of Abel Motorsports as the team expands its race preparation and engineering capabilities for the 2026 season and beyond. As part of the collaboration, Abel Motorsports will take delivery of SimCraft’s flagship APEX 6 GT professional full motion racing simulator to support driver training, setup development, and engineering workflows for the team’s engineers and chief mechanic.
The APEX 6 GT system is SimCraft’s most advanced driver-in-the-loop (DIL) platform, designed to deliver high-fidelity motion cueing and repeatable vehicle dynamics for driver development and technical evaluation. The system provides teams with a cost-approachable alternative to the multimillion-dollar DIL simulators historically required at the factory level. The system will be integrated into Abel Motorsports’ preparation program to enhance simulator-based testing, driver adaptation, and pre-event readiness.
SimCraft’s relationship with the Abel Motorsports program is further strengthened through its ongoing personal and professional connections with drivers Myles Rowe and Jordan Missig, both of whom have utilized simulation as a core component of their driver development pathways within the Abel Motorsports ecosystem.
“This program is built around people we know, trust, and have worked with closely,” said TJ Halsema, Director of Driver Development at SimCraft. “Our relationships with Myles and Jordan, along with the engineering leadership under John Brunner, make this a natural fit. The APEX 6 GT gives the team a tool that supports both driver feel and engineering accuracy, which is exactly where modern race prep is heading.”
SimCraft also highlighted its prior competitive success working alongside lead engineer Kent Boyer during his tenure with Schmidt Peterson Motorsports. That collaboration contributed to two driver championships, two team championships, and more than 31 race wins. The shared history and proven engineering alignment between SimCraft and Abel Motorsports leadership form a strong foundation for the expanded effort with Abel Motorsports.
“We’re extremely excited to bring the APEX 6 GT into our program. As we continue to grow in INDY NXT, having a true driver-in-the-loop platform of this caliber lets us sharpen driver training, accelerate setup development, and give our engineers and chief mechanic a repeatable environment to work problems before we ever get to the track. SimCraft’s motion fidelity is what sets it apart, and we expect it to make a real difference in how prepared we are on race weekends.” — John Brunner, Team Principal, Abel Motorsports.
SimCraft systems are used across professional motorsports, research institutions, and advanced driver development programs, with a focus on delivering physically correct motion and repeatable training environments.
About Abel Motorsports
Abel Motorsports is a family-owned and operated professional auto racing team competing in the INDY NXT by Firestone Championship, the official development series of the NTT INDYCAR SERIES. Founded by Bill Abel—a lifelong racer whose competitive roots trace back to motocross in the 1970s—the team has steadily advanced through the open-wheel ranks, including winning the inaugural Formula Regional Americas Championship. Led day-to-day by Team Principal John Brunner, one of the most respected figures in the INDYCAR paddock, Abel Motorsports has evolved into a multi-car program recognized for technical excellence, driver development, and consistent performance. The team made its Indianapolis 500 debut in 2023 and followed with a breakout 2024 INDY NXT season highlighted by multiple wins, poles, and podium finishes. Abel Motorsports continues to focus on long-term growth while developing the next generation of top-level open-wheel talent.
About SimCraft
SimCraft is a global leader in motion simulation technology, specializing in professional-grade racing simulators designed for both driver development and elite immersive entertainment. Founded in 1997, SimCraft’s pioneering motion technology replicates real-world vehicle dynamics with extraordinary fidelity, delivering a “center of mass” simulation experience that replicates “seat of the pants” feel, and is the preferred choice of championship racing drivers. The company’s innovative simulators, ranging from one to six degrees of freedom, have become an essential tool for professional drivers, engineers, and serious motorsport enthusiasts worldwide.
Headquartered in Kennesaw, GA, SimCraft continues to push the boundaries of simulation technology, leveraging physics-based designs to offer a comprehensive product lineup that spans various price points and configurations. With over two decades of expertise, SimCraft has established itself as a trusted provider in the racing industry, providing cutting-edge tools for skill enhancement, training, development, and vehicle setup optimization.