VI-grade simulator selected for Imola research lab

VI-grade has announced that its COMPACT Simulator has been selected for PITLab, a new research facility at the Autodromo Internazionale Enzo e Dino Ferrari in Imola, Italy. The laboratory, officially inaugurated on 6 February 2026, is a joint venture between the University of Bologna and Formula Imola S.p.A.

PITLab will focus on sustainable mobility and road safety research, combining simulated and real-world testing at the racetrack facility. The COMPACT Simulator provides driver-in-the-loop capabilities with a complete driving station including adjustable seat, steering wheel, pedals, gear selector, and visual display.
VI-grade said the simulator enables research in vehicle behaviour, driver interaction, infrastructure design, and mobility safety. The system supports digital twin development, allowing researchers to analyse driver behaviour and vehicle responses in controlled conditions.

Guido Bairati, Vice President of Global Sales at HBK, VI-grade’s parent company, said: “Integrating the VI-grade COMPACT Simulator into this research environment, closely aligned with real industrial needs, enables digital twin development within the VI-grade ecosystem, supporting the safe and cost-effective creation of solutions for tomorrow’s mobility challenges.”

Valeria Vignali, Director of PITLab, added: “With state-of-the-art equipment and PITLab’s expertise, we can address key challenges in sustainable mobility and road safety using advanced methods that integrate simulation with on-track testing.”

Source: VI-grade