When Justin Ely became interested in SIM racing in 2024, he noticed a glaring gap in the Nashville market for a place to go to race on SIM rigs. As Ely noticed that SIM racing clubs were popping up in other areas across the country, a vision began to take form to bring a SIM racing concept to Nashville.
Now, Ely is gearing up to open Swerv at 315 Hermitage Ave. He has no exact opening date set, but he is in the hiring process and acquiring final licenses needed prior to opening.
Swerv will feature Podium1 Racing P2 rigs, allowing customers to experience immersive, precise racing experiences with state-of-the-art technology. Customers will be able to customize their experience, set up a racing profile and track their statistics.
In addition to the racing rigs, Swerv will offer a culinary aspect. The menu will focus on shareable plates as well as flatbreads and racing-inspired craft cocktails. The design of the space will feature a lounge area for people to enjoy as well as a racing pit.
Ultimately, Ely wants to make Swerv about community-building. Eventually, Ely hopes to incorporate leagues and challenges into the Swerv concept, and he is hoping Nashville will be the first home for Swerv and will set the stage for expansion into new markets in the future.
“SIM racing communities are huge right now,” Ely told What Now Nashville. “We want to build a community. Some people have already reached out to me who want to come there to practice. It’s just a really exciting concept.”
