Radio-controlled full-size automobiles are nothing new?just ask J.J. Lynch?but as far as we know, nobody?s yet done an RC track day using a full-size R35 Nissan GT-R. Until now, that is. Nissan GT Academy winner and Super GT racer Jann Mardenborough has lapped Silverstone?s National Circuit using a PlayStation controller to command Godzilla?s every move.
The car was outfitted with a suite of servos to control throttle, brake, steering, and shifting, while Mardenborough?s control interface was a bone-stock Sony DualShock 4 controller. Translating the controller?s signals to the servos was a custom-programmed microcomputer. Button-mashing becomes real-world motion! Perched on high in a helicopter above the track, Mardenborough monitored speed courtesy of a display connected wirelessly to a Racelogic VBOX mounted in the car. For safety?s sake, two additional operators were stationed on the course, both with the ability to apply full ABS braking and cut the engine should the situation warrant it.
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The result" Mardenborough?s quickest trip around the circuit was 1:17:47, which means he was averaging 76 mph. Vmax during the run was 131 mph, which is a fair bit faster than our old Tamiya Fox would go. The stunt was set up to celebrate the release of Gran Turismo Sport, as well as to fete 20 years of Nissan?s involvement with the s...