Highlands Radical U-Drive, Cromwell, New Zealand

The Highlands Radical U-Drive is one of New Zealand's most exhilarating motorsport experiences, giving visitors the chance to drive a Radical SR3 race car on the purpose-built Highlands Motorsport Park circuit in Cromwell. Designed to deliver the sensation of driving a Le Mans-style prototype, this experience combines incredible acceleration, aerodynamic grip, and professional coaching in a safe and controlled environment. (Highlands)

Experience Highlights

Drive a Genuine Radical SR3 Race Car

Unlike conventional sports cars, the Radical SR3 is a lightweight, track-focused racing machine built for speed and precision.

Key Features:

• Aerodynamic bodywork generating high downforce

• High-performance four-cylinder racing engine

• 6-speed paddle-shift gearbox

• Racing slick tyres for exceptional grip

• Open-cockpit design for an immersive driving experience

Its combination of low weight and race engineering delivers an experience that closely resembles professional endurance racing. (Highlands)

Professional Instructor by Your Side

Every participant is accompanied by a professional racing instructor seated in the passenger seat.

The instructor provides:

• Racing line guidance

• Braking point coaching

• Cornering techniques

• Paddle-shift operation assistance

• Confidence-building tips throughout the session

This ensures drivers of varying experience levels can safely enjoy the full performance of the Radical SR3. (Highlands)

The Track Experience

The Radical U-Drive takes place on Highlands' dedicated 1.5 km C Track, featuring:

• Fast acceleration zones

• Technical corners

• Smooth racing surface

• Wide run-off areas

• Professional safety infrastructure

The combination of high-speed straights and flowing bends allows drivers to experience the incredible cornering ability of the Radical SR3 while enjoying spectacular Central Otago scenery. (Highlands)

Seven Adrenaline-Pumping Laps

The standard experience includes:

• 7 guided laps

• Progressive increase in pace as confidence builds

• One-on-one instruction

• Full race car experience from start to finish

Every lap allows drivers to refine their technique and better understand the capabilities of a purpose-built race car. (Highlands)

Step-by-Step Experience

1. Arrival

Guests arrive approximately 15 minutes before their scheduled session and complete registration.

2. Documentation

Drivers present:

• Photo ID

• Booking confirmation

• Valid driver's licence

3. Safety Briefing

A comprehensive briefing covers:

• Vehicle controls

• Track layout

• Racing etiquette

• Safety procedures

4. Suit Up

Participants receive:

• Racing helmet

• Safety equipment

• Final instructions before entering pit lane

5. Hit the Track

Drivers take the wheel while the instructor provides live coaching, helping them maximize speed and confidence through every corner.

6. Finish

After completing the session, participants receive a printed certificate and can relax at the Highlands Café or explore the rest of the motorsport park. (Highlands)

Radical SR3 Performance

The Radical SR3 is regarded as one of the world's most successful lightweight race cars.

Highlights

• Purpose-built racing chassis

• Lightweight construction

• Race-spec suspension

• High aerodynamic downforce

• Slick racing tyres

• Paddle-shift transmission for lightning-fast gear changes

The result is remarkable stability through corners and an authentic race-day experience unlike typical supercar drives. (Highlands)

Scenic Motorsport Setting

One of the unique features of Highlands Motorsport Park is its breathtaking location.

While driving, participants enjoy views of:

• Central Otago mountains

• Vineyards

• Rolling hills

• Alpine landscapes

The combination of motorsport and scenery makes this one of the most memorable driving experiences in New Zealand. (Highlands)

Safety & Driver Requirements

Drivers must:

• Be 18 years or older

• Hold a valid driver's licence

• Present photo identification

• Wear long sleeves, long pants, and enclosed shoes

• Purchase or bring an approved balaclava if required

Additional recommendations:

• Preferred maximum height: 188 cm

• Preferred maximum weight: 110 kg

• Minimum recommended height: 165 cm

• Zero alcohol tolerance applies to all self-drive experiences

• The activity is not suitable for pregnant guests or those with certain heart conditions. (Highlands)

Optional Extras

Visitors can enhance their experience with:

• Additional driving laps

• Professional onboard video recording

• Passenger "hot laps"

• Combination packages with other Highlands attractions

Friends and family can watch from dedicated spectator areas and capture photos throughout the session. (Highlands)

Visitor Information

• Location: Highlands Motorsport Park, Corner SH6 & Sandflat Road, Cromwell, Central Otago

• Distance from Queenstown: Approximately 45 minutes by car

• Recommended Duration: 1–2 hours

• Advance Booking: Strongly recommended, especially during weekends and holidays

• Weather: The Radical U-Drive operates only in suitable dry track conditions for maximum safety. (Highlands)

Why Visit?

The Highlands Radical U-Drive offers an opportunity that few destinations can match—the chance to pilot a genuine Radical SR3 race car on a world-class circuit with professional coaching and spectacular alpine scenery. The open cockpit, paddle-shift gearbox, immense grip, and razor-sharp handling create an experience often compared to driving a Le Mans prototype, making it one of the ultimate motorsport adventures in New Zealand.

Enthusiast Perspective

Motorsport and sim-racing communities frequently describe the Radical SR3 as an incredibly engaging machine, praising its exceptional grip, intense acceleration, and immersive open-cockpit feel. Many drivers consider it one of the closest experiences available to professional endurance racing without needing a racing licence. (reddit.com)