The Playseat Evolution 2 Is Here, and It Folds Flat with Your Wheel Still Attached

The evolution of a classic sim racing chair combines the best of Playseat's other rigs.

Playseat has refreshed the cockpit that helped create the home racing category, leaning on elements from the rest of its range. There’s plenty of new bits here, but the big change is what happens when you’ve finished racing. Borrowing the party trick of the Playseat Challenge DD, the Playseat Evolution 2 folds down for storage with your wheel and pedals still attached.

Building on the core of the brand’s other static rigs like the Playseat Instinct and Trophy, the Evolution 2 is built around a high-carbon steel frame. The tubular construction supports all wheel and pedal sets as a result, including strong Direct Drive systems, while a fully foldable backrest means the whole cockpit can be put away between sessions. Playseat says the frame is more stable than first generation racing chairs, with a more car-like driving position to go with it.

Adjustment is meant to be quick and the seat, steering column, and pedals all have stepless, quick-release adjustment, with the steering column using Playseat’s X-Adapt system. That should help if one cockpit is shared between a beginner and someone who takes lap times a bit more seriously. The seat uses Playseat’s ActiFit breathable fabric, which is designed to promote airflow.

The other idea is that you shouldn’t have to start again when it comes time to upgrade. Components of the Playseat Evolution 2 can be swapped and the setup expanded without replacing the core cockpit. Not only that, but a gearshift and accessory holder is included as standard. This could form the base for anything from entry-level gear to professional-grade equipment.

The Evolution 2 costs £299 in the UK and $399 in the US and is available now from Playseat and retailers.