Numerous projects have aimed to employ AI in lieu of human drivers for racing, yet the Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League, known as A2RL, marks the pioneering endeavour to integrate this technology into Formula racing, slated for its debut at the renowned Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi next month.

The genesis of A2RL stems from the ASPIRE group, the program development division of Abu Dhabi’s Advanced Technology Research Council. Envisioned as an annual spectacle, the inaugural race will feature a modified version of the Japanese Super Formula Dallara SF 23 race car. Dubbed the A2RL EVA24, this vehicle is meticulously crafted to house an autonomous stack, equipped with seven Sony cameras offering 360° coverage, four ZF ProWave radars, three Innovusion Falcon Kinetic Lidars, and a sophisticated Neousys computer integrated with GPS. Propelled by a Honda 2.0-litre four-cylinder racing engine mated to a six-speed gearbox, the A2RL EVA24 boasts a top speed of 300 km/h.

Renowned as the second-fastest series globally following Formula 1, the Japan-based Super Formula served as the testing ground, with a manned prototype undergoing trials, including a session in Dubai in November 2023 with former F1 driver Daniil Kvyat at the helm. The autonomous teams will pilot identical vehicles representing universities and prestigious institutions across Asia, Europe, the UAE, and the U.S., each empowered to fine-tune their software algorithms for competitive advantage.

Stephane Timpano, CEO of Aspire, views A2RL as a thrilling prospect, positing it as a platform that could shift the spotlight from drivers to the brilliant engineers, scientists, and programmers orchestrating these autonomous racing marvels.

Eight teams are poised to vie for supremacy and a share of the US$2.25 million prize purse, with the series inaugurating at Yas Marina on April 27th.