Posted: 4/18/25
Spektrum DRIVE: Next Generation Control for RC
Innovations such as AS3X (Artificial Stabilization – 3-aXis) and SAFE (Sensor Assisted Flight Envelope) for aircraft and AVC (Active Vehicle Control) for surface vehicles didn't just improve RC—they redefine it. Novices can now easily take to the skies, while seasoned pros can push the envelope of what's possible. The result? A flattened learning curve and supercharged performance.
Recently, the Spektrum technical experts turned their eyes toward surface vehicles and finding a way to use existing technology featured in AS3X and SAFE to make driving more dynamic and exciting. Their idea was to design a gyro stabilization technology that delivers new driving experiences tailored to each surface vehicle.
In the case of monster trucks, and inspired by their full-scale freestyle shows, the team aspired to replicate those incredible tricks in radio-controlled scale. The groundbreaking solution was Spektrum DRIVE™ (Dynamic Response Intelligent Vehicle Envelope™) technology. This new technology is a revolutionary way to have fun with your radio-controlled vehicle.
Working behind the scenes, the DRIVE System delivers instantaneous corrections regarding throttle, brake, steering, balance, and more, with an expected feel for drivers and reactions that are nanoseconds in implementation. There is no button to start a trick. When replicating full-scale monster truck freestyle tricks, drivers still must drive and understand timing, balance, gravity, and inertia. The DRIVE system only assists the driver in completing the trick.
We've only scratched the surface of the kinds of tricks drivers will be able to do. It's endless what drivers can come up with for tricks.
The Losi LMT 2.0 is the first vehicle to feature this patent-pending Spektrum technology.
Unique Modes
Currently, Spektrum DRIVE Technology provides three pre-programmed drive modes that you can toggle between "on the fly" using your thumb on the DX3 transmitter's A/B rocker switch. An interesting aspect of DRIVE technology is that drivers can start a trick in one mode and switch to a different mode. It's like a cheat code.
- Freestyle Mode — Helps you to hold wheelies, do stoppies, and bicycle on two wheels like full-size Monster Jam™ trucks.
- Wheelie Mode — Offers the optimum electronic support when all you want is to perform show-stopping wheelies.
- Unlimited Mode — This leaves you in complete control of your monster truck with no DRIVE assist.
Freestyle Mode
Made possible by DRIVE Technology, the LMT 2.0's transmitter-activated Freestyle mode is a first for any RC monster truck. In this mode, the electronics allow you to hold longer wheelies, balance for a stoppie, and even "bicycle" on two wheels — just like full-size Monster Jam™ trucks do during their skills challenge and freestyle runs. If the vehicle enters the angle window to the corresponding trick, it will assist the driver in doing that trick. If the vehicle falls outside the window, it will automatically return to normal driving response.Drivers can push the limits of performance and creativity in ways we've never imagined.
Wheelie Mode
With their high-performance torque, monster trucks could not only pop wheelies easily, but they could just as quickly flip over. In Wheelie mode, DRIVE technology offers the exact right amount of electronic support to maintain wheelies down any straightaway. Spektrum engineers developed an algorithm for this mode that helps manage the throttle input to prevent flip-overs. Just like in Freestyle mode, if the vehicle falls outside the window, it will automatically return to normal driving response.
With practice, drivers can keep a wheelie going for as long as they want.
Unlimited Mode
In this setting, you take full command of your vehicle, free from any DRIVE technology. Experience your vehicle's raw power and precision as designed, without any electronic assistance. It's ready to conquer the track like never before!
