🏎 AI in Formula 1

On April 27th, a race of fully autonomous vehicles took place on the Formula 1 track in Abu Dhabi, UAE. All cars were the same, and the quality of its AI programming determined the winner. The Technical University of Munich claimed victory, earning the $2.25 million prize fund.

Even though autonomous vehicles cannot currently compete with real Formula 1 drivers, AI is already present in the main racing series. Over the last six years, the Swiss company Neural Concept has significantly contributed to race car development.

🚴 In 2018, Neural Concept's software helped develop the most aerodynamic bicycle in the world. Today, 4 out of 10 Formula 1 teams use a more advanced version of this technology.

How Does AI Contribute?

👩‍💻 Neural Concept Shape (NCS) technology helps engineers find aerodynamic solutions, which are crucial for maximizing automotive speed and efficiency.

💡 The engineer uploads a 3D model of the automotive part. NCS suggests possible improvements and explains how these might be applied in practice.

⚡ Thanks to AI, NCS suggests much faster aerodynamic-enhancement options than other computer modeling methods. This is significant for Formula 1 teams since rigorous constraints limit modeling time and development costs.

Where Else Can NCS Be Applied?

✈ The company has signed contracts with major aerospace suppliers, including Airbus and Safran.

🚘 Neural Concept also works on applying NCS in conventional car manufacturing to improve electric motor efficiency, optimize cabin heating and cooling systems, and participate in crash durability tests.

Who are you cheering for in this season's Formula 1 championship?

😎 — Mercedes
❤️ — Ferrari
🔥 — Red Bull
⚡️ — McLaren

Sources: The Verge, TechCrunch

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