Under the Hood: A Deep Dive into the Physics & Collision Overhaul in Update 1.58

In preparation for future content like Road Trip and Coaches, the upcoming 1.58 update for Euro Truck Simulator 2 and American Truck Simulator brings a fundamental rework of the core physics simulation update. This overhaul touches everything from vehicle dynamics and throttle response to collision handling and road geometry.

Refining the Core Driving Experience

The primary goal of this extensive physics simulation update was to enhance realism and responsiveness while preserving the familiar feel of driving a truck. According to Pavel Č, a programmer at SCS Software, the team was meticulous in their approach: “A lot of things under the hood changed, but we tried very hard to make sure that the core truck driving experience is still recognizable, but better.”

Improvements were driven by the need to support new, lighter, and more powerful vehicle types while also benefiting existing trucks. The work required expanding a simulation system originally designed and tuned specifically for heavy trucks over many years.

Key Physics Improvements in Update 1.58

The physics simulation update introduces a suite of technical enhancements designed to create a more authentic and nuanced driving experience.

Enhanced Throttle and Engine Response

Throttle response is now calculated from a proper throttle torque engine map, making acceleration feel more natural. Combined with increased engine resistance when coasting, this creates a smoother and more believable flow during cruising. Drivers will also notice the engine now revs slightly to build torque before moving off from a stop, making trucks feel more “alive.” To assist with the new dynamics on inclines, a hill start assistant has been introduced.

Improved Suspension and Audio Feedback

The simulation now includes more accurate wheel camber on solid axles when driving off-road and incorporates caster for turning wheels. These subtle mechanical details improve handling on uneven surfaces. The audio system has also been refined, with turbocharger sounds now more accurately reflecting real-time engine performance.

New Control Scheme: Double Throttle for Keyboard

A significant accessibility and control improvement arrives for keyboard users. The new “double throttle control” system addresses the traditionally binary (on/off) nature of keyboard acceleration.

• Hold: Applies partial throttle for smooth, controlled acceleration and relaxed cruising.
• Double Tap: Engages full throttle for overtaking or climbing steep grades.
• Release & Press Again: Returns to partial throttle after the maneuver is complete.

This optional feature, disabled by default, offers keyboard players a much finer degree of control over their vehicle’s power.

Revamped Collision Geometry for American Truck Simulator

In American Truck Simulator, nearly all road collision geometry has been revisited. The original triangle-based model for road curves could create a subtle “sawtooth” effect along the road center, occasionally reducing wheel friction and affecting stability, especially in highway turn lanes at speed.

The updated collision model allows for smoother curvature representation, leading to better wheel contact, more predictable handling, and improved overall stability.

A Foundation for the Future: Road Trip and Beyond

The 1.58 physics simulation update is the foundational step for future content, particularly the Road Trip project. Simulating new vehicle categories with different weight, power, and handling characteristics pushed the game’s systems into new territory.

The philosophy for Road Trip is not to create a hardcore racing sim but to offer an enjoyable and accessible way to explore the game’s world in iconic vehicles. The development team emphasizes that vehicle tuning will prioritize a stable and enjoyable experience for a broad audience, with room for the concept to evolve over time.

Community Feedback Drives Development

The development team encourages players to participate in the Open Beta for update 1.58 and share their feedback. “Input from our community is an integral part of our daily work, and it’s thanks to you that we can keep improving,” says the team.

This major physics simulation update marks a significant step forward for the technical backbone of both Euro Truck Simulator 2 and American Truck Simulator, setting the stage for an exciting future.

Follow SCS Software on social media and via the official newsletter to stay updated on the 1.58 Open Beta release and future developments. Keep on truckin’!