Full speed ahead for second-generation Indy autonomous racers

Major hardware and software upgrades underpin the Indy Autonomous Challenge racecar for 2024, proving self-driving vehicle capabilities at triple-digit speeds.

After three years and more than 7,000 miles (11,265 km) of racing, the Indy Autonomous Challenge (IAC) enters year four with an updated platform and embedded software upgrades. Among the highlights for the second-generation open-wheel racecars are pending patents and first-time applications. “We've achieved several impressive milestones since our start in 2020,” IAC President Paul Mitchell said.

The achievement list includes setting a speed record for passing in autonomous racing (170 mph [273 km/h]), netting the autonomous vehicle land speed record (192.2 mph [309.3 km/h]) and establishing the fastest lap speed for an autonomous vehicle (180 mph [289.68 km/h]). “More than anything, we consider the IAC an applied-research platform for industry and academia to work together on advancing high-speed autonomy,” Mitchell said.