In a groundbreaking event, driverless cars will race at speeds of up to 300kmph at Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina Circuit. The competition, part of the Aspire Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League (A2RL), features eight teams vying for a prize pool of $2.25 million. Over 10,000 spectators are expected to attend this historic event.
Key Takeaways
- Eight teams will compete in the inaugural A2RL event.
- The race will feature four autonomous cars on the track simultaneously.
- A prize pool of $2.25 million is up for grabs.
- More than 10,000 spectators are expected to witness the event.
- An AI vs human race will also take place.
Teams and Participants
The competition will see eight teams from around the world, including:
- Code19 Racing from the US
- Constructor University from Germany and Switzerland
- Fly Eagle representing Beijing Institute of Technology from China and Khalifa University
- HUMDA Lab from Hungary
- KINETIZ from Singapore and the UAE
- PoliMOVE from Italy
- UNIMORE from Italy
- Technical University of Munich (TUM) from Germany
Each team will have access to identical Dallara Super Formula SF23 cars, autonomized with racing stacks developed by the Technology Innovation Institute (TII). The key differentiator will be how each team utilizes its coding skills, AI algorithms, and machine learning software to teach their cars to drive.
Race Format
For the first time, the race will feature four autonomous cars driving simultaneously on the track. The event will include pre-qualifying races, with the top performers advancing to a final overtaking challenge to determine the ultimate winner. Additionally, an AI vs human race will see TII’s autonomous car compete against former F1 driver Daniil Kvyat.
Technological Innovation
The event aims to push the boundaries of technology under extreme conditions, uncovering new frontiers in science. According to Faisal Al Bannai, Secretary General of the Advanced Technology Research Council, this reimagined racing paradigm leverages the pinnacle of coding skills, AI algorithms, and software development prowess, propelling Abu Dhabi to become a global hub for innovation.
Fan Experience
An exclusive fan zone will offer an elevated experience for families, motorsport fans, and tech enthusiasts. Activities will include a VR zone, the AI museum Raceum, and various tech and gaming experiences. The event will also feature a podium ceremony, fireworks, a drone show, and an after-show concert with DJ Andre Soueid.
Educational Initiatives
Young students from the A2RL STEM Competition will showcase their coding skills on 1:8 scale autonomous racing cars, with 18 schools competing. The race day will be accessible through various live streaming channels, including A2RL’s official YouTube and Twitch channels, motorsport.tv, and the A2RL app.
Conclusion
The inaugural A2RL event promises to be a landmark occasion in the world of motorsport and technological innovation. With a substantial prize pool, international teams, and cutting-edge technology, the event is set to captivate audiences and push the boundaries of what is possible in autonomous racing.
