A recent filing by Microsoft reveals a new model number “WRW02″ for the racing controller (the original version was model number “WRW01.”) The latest controller has it’s been listed with the FCC as “New Equipment,” which is a designation usually reserved for entirely new products, not just minor revisions to current ones. For comparison, here’s the original FCC submission from 2006.

The strange thing is that the photos taken for the FCC testing of the new version (right image) looks virtually identical to the current wheel (left image.) Can you see any difference? I sure can’t.

It’s possible that the revision is just “under the hood,” and could be anything from improvements in the force feedback motors, to the wireless connectivity, to some other circuit changes.

If you do find yourself in the market for one of these wheels, you might want to wait a few weeks, and see if the new version starts showing up on store shelves.

The Zero Tech 3 controller features a trigger-grip design with a sideways mounted analog steering control. The unique design allows players to use their left hand to control the accelerator and brake triggers, while the right hand controls steering. There’s even a little thumb shifter for changing gears on the fly.

The only downside for racing fans is that the controller isn’t wireless. Hori plans on releasing the Zero Tech 3 this July for ¥4,980 (appx. $42 USD.)