The seventh edition of the Indy Autonomous Challenge (IAC) took place at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, where new world records were set for autonomous driving. During the race, speeds of 296 km/h (184 mph) on the track and 290 km/h (180 mph) during overtakes were achieved. The PoliMOVE-MSU team, a collaboration between Politecnico di Milano and Michigan State University, won the overtaking competition with a record-setting maneuver, while Cavalier Autonomous Racing from the University of Virginia broke the time trial record with an average speed of 273 km/h (171 mph) and a top speed of 296 km/h (184 mph).
The IAC, a global leader in high-speed autonomous technology, attracted nine teams from 13 universities across three continents. The autonomous racecars used in the competition were all IAC AV-24 models, the fastest autonomous racecars in the world, equipped with advanced autonomous mobility technology. In addition to the race, an AI & Automation Summit was held, bringing together leaders from industry, government, and academia to discuss the future of AI in autonomous mobility.
The teams’ performances highlight the rapid advancements in AI within the automotive sector and demonstrate the safety capabilities of autonomous systems, as seen when UNIMORE Racing (University of Modena and Reggio Emilia) executed a controlled emergency stop. PoliMOVE-MSU’s AI system quickly and safely responded to this situation, showcasing the safety and stability of autonomous vehicles.
The event, which took place at the legendary “Yard of Bricks,” underscores the role of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway as a testing ground for technological innovations.
Photo: CES 2024/ Credit Indy Autonomous Challenge.