Autonomous racing has reached new heights with the unveiling of the IAC AV-24 at CES 2024. As part of the Indy Autonomous Challenge, this next-generation race car offers a significant leap forward in capabilities compared to its predecessors, such as the AV-21, which universities have been using in previous competitions.
The Indy Autonomous Challenge invites colleges and universities worldwide to develop and race autonomous cars on real racetracks. Teams participating in this phase of the competition will need to create artificial intelligence “drivers” to pilot the vehicles and compete against each other for substantial cash prizes at renowned venues like the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Monza, and the Goodwood Festival of Speed.
The IAC AV-24 boasts an array of new hardware and software systems that enhance its performance. Some notable additions include a Luminar 360-degree long-range lidar system, Continental 4D radar sensors, and an IAC custom drive-by-wire system, enabling independent actuation of front and rear brakes. Furthermore, the vehicle features Marelli race control and real-time data interface, improved GPS capabilities, and various other enhancements. The vehicle’s versatility is also worth mentioning, as competitors can program the AI “driver” to operate on different vehicle chassis, allowing for diverse applications.
To further support competitors, a simulation tool has been developed to train and test AI drivers without the need to purchase a physical car. This opens up new possibilities and access to participants who may otherwise be limited by resources.
Overall, the Indy Autonomous Challenge and the introduction of the IAC AV-24 push the boundaries of high-speed automation. By transferring knowledge gained from the racetrack to the road, advancements in this field can lead to innovations and enhanced features in autonomous driving technology. The future of autonomous racing looks promising, as the IAC AV-24 showcases the increasing capabilities of AI-powered race cars.
The source of the article is from the blog windowsvistamagazine.es