Could the future of Formula One be driverless cars?
The Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League (A2RL) thinks so.
The A2RL will launch in April 2024 a global series for autonomous racing cars with speeds of up to 185mph.
Held, where else, at the Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi.
Rather than rely on driver skill, ten teams of engineers will compete to design the cleverest algorithm to beat each other and claim the £1.85m prize money.
The A2RL will feature teams worldwide competing with identical Dallara Super Formula SF23 cars controlled by artificial intelligence (AI) systems.
The idea is to decrease the STEM talent gap. STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.
I understand the institute has a highly commendable ethos. To pioneer the future of transportation, to inspire the next generation of STEM talent, and to accelerate Abu Dhabi’s knowledge economy.
The idea is worthy of high praise, but really, driverless racing cars, what is the world coming to?
Call me old-fashioned, but Formula One also has a rich history and tradition passed down through generations of fans.
The sport has evolved over the years, but its core appeal remains the same:
- The thrill of high-speed racing
- The unpredictability of competition
- The sense of camaraderie among fans
I can’t see many fans getting excited about James the boffin being cleverer than Algernon, in the same way they feel about Max and Lewis.
