The Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League (A2RL) has experienced a rapid rise, going from conception to the track in just one year. The inaugural A2RL race took place at Yas Marina Circuit on April 27, 2024. However, this league is not just about racing; it is described as a “challenge” that aims to shape STEM education in the United Arab Emirates and promote autonomous mobility worldwide. The race featured Dallara-built single-seater cars equipped with advanced technology and offered a substantial prize pool. Here are the key takeaways from the first-ever A2RL event.
The A2RL car is a 2023 Dallara Super Formula chassis powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine that can generate approximately 550 horsepower. It is equipped with a six-speed 3MO gearbox and features pushrod suspension, Brembo carbon brakes, and Yokohama tires. What sets the A2RL car apart is its advanced cockpit, which includes seven Sony IMX728 cameras providing 360-degree coverage for the AI that drives the car. The AI also utilizes 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 the A2RL uses the same car but different coding to set them apart. Teams must utilize their coding skills, including languages like C++, to develop algorithms that enable the machine learning software to navigate the track based on data from the sensors. The AI must also monitor the temperature of the tires and brakes to optimize performance. It makes decisions on steering, acceleration, gear shifting, and braking every five milliseconds through hydraulic actuators. Safety measures include a remote shut-off button.
The A2RL consists of eight teams: Fly Eagle, Humda Lab, Code19, Constructor, Kinetiz, Polimove, Unimore, and Technical University of Munich. These teams competed for a prize pool of $2.25 million in the inaugural event, with the majority going to the winner of the final race. However, A2RL’s objectives go beyond speed; it aims to inspire students and promote STEM subjects in the UAE 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 by testing autonomous vehicles at high speeds in a controlled environment.
Before the final race, former Formula 1 driver Daniil Kvyat participated in an ‘AI vs Human’ challenge, driving a Super Formula car against an autonomous car. While 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 over eight laps, but it 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.