On a recent episode of “Drive with Lauren and Carl,” we delved into two quite different aspects of car culture. We discussed the new trend of Hollywood car films centered around classic analog vehicles and a highly realistic driving simulator created by automotive journalist Mike Hurley.
At first glance, you might think these subjects have little in common.
Traditional simulators often present exaggerated controls, unreliable feedback, and can feel quite artificial.
Yet, when examined together, they reveal a broader truth: the driving experience seems to be diverging into two realms. One is heavily digital, more controlled, and simulated, while the other emphasizes the raw emotional and physical sensations that initially drew people to driving.
A new kind of driving experience
Mike Hurley is a co-founder of Marble Labs, an Idaho company focused on developing innovative driving simulators, known as XP1.
This simulator, years in the making, moves away from outdated arcade-style mechanics, aiming instead to mirror real-world driving: how vehicles respond to steering, braking, weight shifts, and traction. While many simulators claim this, most drivers can instantly recognize the difference. Traditional simulators fail to accurately mimic real sensations.
XP1 seeks to address this gap.
Rather than relying on force feedback, it employs physically-based models intended to mimic how actual vehicles behave. The primary goal is straightforward: to seamlessly transfer the skills acquired while driving a real car to the simulation.
This approach has real-world benefits. For instance, novice drivers can practice safely without risks, while senior drivers can regain confidence in a low-pressure environment. Enthusiasts can refine techniques like braking, cornering, and control without the costs associated with fuel, tires, or repairs.
Plus, you don’t need to break the bank—a standard PC with an affordable wheel and pedal setup is all you require.
This matters because, as driving becomes costlier and more regulated, simulation shifts from being a novelty to a functional tool.
Limits of digitalization
Even with these advancements in simulation, there are still elements that can’t be faithfully reproduced. While physics, vehicle dynamics, and environments can be modeled, the emotional aspect remains elusive.
This point surfaced repeatedly in our discussions, particularly as we transitioned from simulators to real cars, especially performance models. Brands like Lamborghini and Porsche are already reconsidering their trajectory toward full electrification, not because they can’t create speedy EVs, but because they sense something vital is absent.
It’s about sound, vibration, and that intangible connection between driver and machine.
Sure, a car that goes from zero to sixty in under two seconds is impressive, but when it happens silently, lacking drama or feedback, many drivers—especially enthusiasts—feel the experience is lacking.
Hollywood still figures it out
If you’re curious about the vitality of car culture, look no further than Hollywood.
Automotive correspondent Josh Hancock pointed out that filmmakers understand driving is more than technical—it’s an emotional journey. For instance, a reboot of ‘The Rockford Files’ might feature a classic Pontiac Firebird. Following the success of “F1,” a sequel is already in production. Additionally, “Days of Thunder” is making a comeback. New films like “Crime 101” are centered around analog vehicles like Camaros and Challengers, using practical effects alongside digital techniques.
This indicates that filmmakers grasp a point often missed in the industry: people connect with cars because driving evokes feelings.
And that’s an aspect that advanced simulations continue to strive to replicate.
Two paths forward
What’s unfolding isn’t simply a matter of one approach replacing another; it’s a fragmentation of experiences.
On one side, driving is becoming increasingly digital:
- Simulators for training and practice.
- Electric vehicles concentrating on efficiency and performance metrics.
- Growing dependence on software and automation.
Conversely, the physical aspect of driving persists:
- Internal combustion engines remain dominant, especially among enthusiasts.
- Vehicles are still designed with an emphasis on feel as well as function.
- Cultural appreciation is being reinforced through cinema and media.
These two paths can coexist and perhaps must.
Simulators can aid drivers by reducing costs and improving access to training. Yet, no amount of virtual sophistication can replace the fundamental reasons people love driving.
Conclusion
The landscape of driving is evolving, sometimes even altering the necessity of driving altogether.
Nevertheless, the core reasons people cherish cars remain constant.
The emergence of sophisticated simulators like XP1 underscores the progress made in digital driving, while the resurgence of analog car culture in films highlights that much of the driving experience is still tied to reality.
Listen to all episodes of “Lauren and Carl Drive” featuring Mike Hurley below.
