CarSim 8.0 has just been released, claimed to be a major update to the vehicle simulation performance software package.

Developers have worked over the past year to provide improvements in the GUI and database capabilities, making this eighth version simpler for casual users who do not need to learn all the details involved in vehicle simulation. At the same time, advanced capabilities from previous versions are now built-in for easy access by all users.

New features include: unlimited undo in the database, automatic navigation between multiple CarSim databases, consolidated export files that include animation shapes and other support files (useful for both transferring and archiving data), encrypted data files that can be transferred between partner companies, and a global search function for all installed CarSim documentation.

Features for automation and model extension, such as VS commands, the VS API, and Window COM interface (Active X) have also been aproved.

Backward compatibility has been maintained, so users can open existing CarSim databases in CarSim 8. Databases from 2008 work fine - even databases as far back as 2005 (CarSim6) import to CarSim 8 with little or no editing needed.

The math models in CarSim 8 include some major new features, such as built-in support for traffic vehicles and ranging sensors (up to 20 sensors, up to 99 targets and traffic vehicles), variable-width roads, support for the COSIN Ftire model, options in the math models to support many nonlinear suspension compliances and mechanical advantages, and improvements in powertrain dynamics.