Electronic Arts has announced that it is launching a new beta stage for Need for Speed World, the MMO based on the long running racing franchise. The new stage is expected to run until Wednesday, June 30, and will allow the developers at EA Black Box and EA Singapore to get some feedback from the gaming community about the mechanics of the fresh game. The launch date is at the moment set for July 20 and Need for Speed World is coming exclusively to the PC.

The announcement from EA says there are a lot of changes and tweaks made to Need for Speed World for the new beta with new additions including: “performance customization packs for each car, Private Matches, 50 levels of progression, new vehicles, a Meeting Place for car shows and a whole new world region (Camden).” For the first time, the developers are also offering a German version of the client for the MMO.

Need for Speed World, which previously also had the Online tagline, is set to take the best elements from series installment Carbon and Most Wanted combining them with a open world environment. The game will have a lot of licensed vehicles, upgrades and allow players to get experience and to level up, gaining special abilities that can help them win races and build a better car.

The title has been confirmed as being free to play, with gamers able to enjoy it without paying a subscription fee. After a player reaches a certain level, the game will no longer progress unless the Need for Speed World Starter Pack is bought.

Electronic Arts is also working on a single-player oriented Need for Speed, which is being developed by Criterion and set to be launched at some point during the next year.