Maserati, known for crafting some of the most exquisite vehicles, has now achieved a remarkable feat in the realm of autonomous driving. The Italian luxury automaker’s MC20 supercar has shattered speed records, emerging as the world’s fastest autonomous vehicle with a staggering top speed of 197.7 mph, all without a human driver at the controls.
This groundbreaking achievement surpassed the previous record of 192.8 mph set by the Indy Autonomous Challenge and the PoliMOVE team, a group affiliated with the performance division of Artificial Intelligence Driving Autonomous at Politecnico di Milano, using an IAC AV-21 racecar at the same location in April 2022.
Impressively, the AI driver software that propelled Maserati’s supercar to this historic feat was developed by the same PoliMOVE team. Equipped with a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine pumping out 621 horsepower and capable of reaching a top speed of 202 mph, the MC20 is a true marvel of engineering and innovation.
### Maserati’s Choice of Location for the Record-Breaking Run
The record-setting run took place at the Space Florida Launch and Landing Facility at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, a renowned 2.8-mile-long runway known for its optimal conditions for high-speed trials. In collaboration with the Indy Autonomous Challenge, Politecnico di Milano, and the 1000 Miglia Experience Florida, Maserati showcased the cutting-edge capabilities of its AI-driven supercar.
Paul Mitchell, CEO of Indy Autonomous Challenge and Aidoptation BV, emphasized the significance of these world speed records in pushing the boundaries of AI-driven technology, aiming to enhance the safety, security, and sustainability of high-speed autonomous mobility on highways.
Following the autonomous speed run, a Maserati MC20 Cielo participated in the 1000 Miglia Experience Florida, further demonstrating the adaptability and performance of Maserati’s autonomous driving technology.
### The Purpose Behind the High-Speed Tests
Professor Sergio Matteo Savaresi, Scientific Director of the project and Director of the Department of Electronics, Information, and Bioengineering at Politecnico di Milano, underscored the importance of evaluating the behavior of AI systems in extreme conditions to enhance safety, reliability, and reaction time. These tests play a crucial role in advancing autonomous driving technology and improving the overall safety of high-speed and urban mobility scenarios.
### Final Thoughts on Maserati’s AI-Driven Supercar
The rapid advancements in self-driving technology are truly remarkable, paving the way for a future where autonomous driving could revolutionize the automotive industry. However, while the testing of AI-driven supercars like the MC20 is essential for technological progress, the essence of owning a supercar lies in the exhilarating experience of driving it manually.
Maserati’s achievement in breaking speed records with their AI-driven supercar reflects a blend of innovation, performance, and technological prowess. Whether these cutting-edge advancements will ultimately shape the future of high-speed autonomous mobility remains to be seen.
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