New Conqueror And Cutlass Formula Vee Cars in iRacing

The Formula Vee has proven to be one of the most popular series within the iRacing community since the car first arrived back in 2021. The underpowered weapon pretty much single-handedly killing off the vulnerable Skip Barber Racing machine. Its low-power philosophy puts a bigger focus on slipstreaming and racecraft, which means having ultimate one-lap pace will rarely win you the race. 

Now, as of iRacing 2026 Season 3, some extra spice will be added to any contests run with the little Formula Vee weapon. Two new chassis will arrive following five years of running a single chassis. This guide will run you through the new chassis and what you need to get them. 

Introduction To The Conqueror And Cutlass Formula Vees

The Formula Vee runs to a very simple philosophy. The cars feature a small and underpowered engine twinned with some form of tubular racing chassis, ensuring they’re very light and also pretty strong. The Formula Vee in iRacing is based on a pre-1963 Volkswagen Beetle, meaning it uses the same naturally aspirated 1.4-litre inline-four engine as the famous German model. 

With a commanding 69 bhp and 76 lb-ft of torque being sent to the rear wheels, it can’t be said that the Formula Vee is one of the faster cars within iRacing. Crucially, though, it’s more than fast enough to provide close and exciting racing. 

Due to the lack of any aerodynamic surfaces, the cars produce little to no dirty air behind them, making following extremely easy. Plus, the lack of power makes the slipstream effect incredibly powerful, making it tough for even the fastest drivers to pull away from the chasing pack. 

While the Classic is based on cars seen across North America in series like SCCA Runoffs, the new Conqueror and Cutlass designs are influenced by international takes on the cars. The vehicles are inspired by those raced in the likes of Ireland and South Africa, nations that feature prolific Formula Vee series. 

If you’re interested in learning about the other additions brought to iRacing as part of its Season 3 2026 update, check out Coach Dave Academy’s guide detailing them. 

The Basic Car Setup

Even though all three available Formula Vee chassis look different from one another, they all feature identical physics. That goes from a mechanical perspective, as well as an aero one, with the bodies not affecting the vehicle other than from an aesthetic standpoint. This means all three cars are as quick as each other, with no advantage being offered by choosing any of the three machines. 

While they don’t provide any kind of performance benefit, you at least have the chance to stand out from those who elect to stick with the free base model. You’ll have to purchase the two new chassis, though iRacing is offering both for a singular fee in a 2-for-1 deal at $11.95. 

• Having the extra body styles also makes every Formula Vee race feel more realistic, since most real-life series see varying chassis types all compete against one another. 

If you want to learn more about the Formula Vee, check out Coach Dave Academy’s deep dive into how the car ticks. 

Where To Race The New Formula Vees

Everything about the Formula Vee fixtures will remain the same as before, with the Conqueror and Cutlass chassis both being eligible for the Formula Vee Fixed rookie series. As a result, the championship will remain open for all license holders, with all the tracks used across each season being included in the base iRacing membership, much like the Formula Vee Classic. 

Final Thoughts

When it comes to learning the basics of wheel-to-wheel racing, the Formula Vee takes some beating. Its underpowered nature means the racing remains close the entire time, affording you the chance to work on your racecraft around plenty of other cars. Aside from placing your car in the correct place, you’ll also learn how best to position yourself to secure the best result as the race reaches its crescendo. 

Plus, the road-based tyres and lack of aero make the car pretty easy to drive, once you get used to it. There may not be much grip overall, but the grip drop-off isn’t as aggressive as with a full racing slick like you’ll find on a more powerful racecar. This allows you to play with the car more without serious consequences, which will help build your confidence as your car makes different shapes beneath you. 

Plus, even if you aren’t a beginner, the Formula Vee is simply great fun to drive and provides exhilarating racing. If you aren’t feeling jumping into a more serious GT3 or prototype-style race, the Formula Vee offers the ideal arena to let off some steam. With the two new chassis available to use, each race will provide that bit more variety compared to what has been the case since the machine first joined the service.