AI will write F1’s rules
The FIA is bringing AWS AI tools and aerodynamic simulations into the development of future F1 regulations. Here is what the technology will actually do.
Illustration: F1 CFD Simulation (2020), Cofaser / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0.Illustration: F1 CFD Simulation (2020), Cofaser / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0.
Artificial intelligence is entering the work behind Formula 1’s future rules. The FIA has announced a partnership with Amazon Web Services (AWS), with AI tools set to support its technical teams as they develop regulations. The federation remains responsible for the rules: the announcement does not hand decision-making over to an algorithm.
What will the technology do?
The FIA already uses AWS high-performance computing for aerodynamic simulations. Engineers can examine airflow around a car virtually, without first manufacturing physical components. This allows concepts to be tested faster while reducing costs and environmental impact.
AI tools will add to that capability, helping the engineers who develop the sport’s future technical framework. The stated priorities are safety, performance and sustainability. The announcement does not specify when a particular set of rules will first be developed with these tools.
Beyond the cars
The agreement also covers digital services across motor sport. A licensing platform trialled in Canada and Sri Lanka will expand to more countries, aiming to simplify administration for national sporting authorities and registration for officials.
For F1, the deal puts more computing power and data behind the process of shaping future cars. AI will assist the people developing the regulations; the effect on the cars that eventually reach the grid remains to be seen.
Sources: FIA; Motorsport.com.
Illustration: “F1 CFD Simulation”, Cofaser / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0. The image dates from 2020 and does not depict an FIA/AWS simulation.
