The Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League (A2RL) experienced rapid growth, going from conception to track in just one year. A2RL’s inaugural race took place at the Yas Marina Circuit on April 27, 2024. However, this league is not just about racing; it is described as a “challenge” aimed at shaping STEM education in the United Arab Emirates and promoting autonomous mobility worldwide. The race featured single-seater cars built by Dallara equipped with advanced technology and offered a substantial prize. Here are the key highlights from the first A2RL event.
The A2RL car is a 2023 Dallara Super Formula chassis with a 2.0-liter turbo engine that can generate approximately 550 horsepower. It is equipped with a 3MO six-speed gearbox and features push-rod suspension, Brembo carbon brakes, and Yokohama tires. What sets the A2RL car apart is its advanced cockpit, which includes seven Sony IMX728 cameras that provide 360-degree coverage for the artificial intelligence driving the car. The AI also uses radars and Lidar devices for additional sensor input. The computing power comes from the Neousys RGS-8805GC, which supports a high-level Nvidia GPU and other essential components. The sensors and computer are encased in a sustainable carbon fiber material.
Each team in A2RL uses the same car, but with different coding to differentiate them. Teams must use their coding skills, including languages like C++, to develop algorithms that allow the machine learning software to navigate the track based on sensor data. The AI also monitors tire and brake temperatures to optimize performance. It makes steering, acceleration, gear shifting, and braking decisions every five milliseconds through hydraulic actuators. Safety measures include a remote shutdown button.
A2RL is composed of eight teams: Fly Eagle, Humda Lab, Code19, Constructor, Kinetiz, Polimove, Unimore, and Technical University of Munich. These teams competed for a $2.25 million prize in the inaugural event, with most of it going to the winner of the final race. However, A2RL’s goals go beyond speed; it aims to inspire students and promote STEM disciplines in the United Arab Emirates and beyond. A 1:8 scale STEM Competition was also held to engage younger students. A2RL is also focused on shaping the future of mobility, testing autonomous vehicles at high speeds in a controlled environment.
Before the final race, former Formula 1 driver Daniil Kvyat took part in an “AI vs Human” challenge, driving a Super Formula car against an autonomous car. Although Kvyat easily outperformed the autonomous car, the event showcased the progress and potential of artificial intelligence in racing. The final race consisted of four teams competing for eight laps, but was marred by technical issues and safety car conditions. In the end, Technical University of Munich emerged as the winner.
Despite the challenges faced in the first race, A2RL has committed to hosting at least one race per year for the next four years. The league aims to continue advancing urban mobility and supporting STEM careers. The future of A2RL promises even faster and more advanced cars, and it will be exciting to see how the league evolves.
© 2024
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