Pratt Miller Motorsports Helps Robert Wickens Return to Racing with Cutting-Edge Wheel-Based Control System
MARCH 31ST, 2025
Pratt Miller Motorsports is once again making headlines, not just for their remarkable racing achievements but also for their innovative work off the track. In partnership with BOSCH, the team has developed a groundbreaking wheel-based control system that enables paralyzed driver Robert Wickens to return to the racetrack. After a tragic accident in 2018 left Wickens paralyzed, his determination to return to the track is truly inspiring. Wickens’ journey back to racing has been nothing short of inspiring. After the accident that ended his INDYCAR career, he vowed to return to competitive motorsports. In 2023, Wickens made history as the first driver to win a significant motorsports title in North America using hand controls, taking the championship in the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge. Pratt Miller’s engineers, inspired by Wickens' determination, have worked tirelessly to design and implement this system, allowing him to continue pursuing his passion for racing.
The collaboration between Pratt Miller Motorsports, BOSCH, General Motors, and DXDT Racing has led to the creation of a cutting-edge hand-control braking system, integrated into the Chevrolet Corvette Z06 GT3.R. This system, designed for seamless adaptability, enables Wickens to switch the hand-control system on for himself and off for co-drivers who prefer to use the traditional brake and throttle pedals. This unique solution exemplifies Pratt Miller's ability to push the boundaries of automotive technology, not only in performance but in the spirit of inclusion and innovation.
In just four months, what began as a design brief became a fully functional system that would help Wickens take the wheel of his Corvette once again. His first laps in the car were completed at Sebring International Raceway, with Wickens expressing his excitement about the performance of both the Corvette Z06 GT3.R and the BOSCH hand-control system. "So far, so good," said Wickens. "The BOSCH system is delivering excellent performance. I’ve got a dream team behind me with BOSCH, GM, Pratt & Miller, and of course, DXDT Racing. I couldn’t be more excited to race at Long Beach again."
This race at Long Beach in April will mark Wickens’ return to a street circuit using the new hand-control system, as he makes his debut in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship. His co-driver for the event will be two-time GTLM champion and Pratt Miller Motorsports driver Tommy Milner, who has also familiarized himself with the control system. Milner shared his excitement: “I’m really excited to join DXDT and Robert at Long Beach. This event presents a perfect combination of opportunities: supporting Rob in his Corvette debut, and returning to the Long Beach track.”
Now, with the support of BOSCH, Pratt Miller Motorsports, and a dedicated team, Wickens is preparing for his next chapter in racing, aiming to compete at the highest levels once again. His return to racing represents more than just a personal triumph—it's a testament to the power of innovation and collaboration in motorsports.
The Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach will be available for viewing on several platforms on Saturday, April 12. With the broadcast beginning at 5:00 PM Eastern, the race can been seen on USA Network, and streaming on peacock, IMSA TV and YouTube.
