The future of motorsports: how AI is revolutionising Extreme E racing
Rupert Svendsen-Cook, Jack Clarke and Molly Taylor of E.ON Next Veloce Racing on how AI is turbocharging Extreme E—from car performance through to fan engagement.
In the fast-paced world of motorsports, technology is a constant driving force behind innovation and performance. One of the most transformative advancements we're seeing today is the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into various aspects of racing, particularly in the all-electric, offroad racing series Extreme E.
This exciting development is reshaping not only car development and race strategy but also how we engage with fans and deliver content.
AI accelerating car development and race strategy
AI’s impact on motorsports is propelling car technology forward in ways that were unimaginable just a few years ago. Take Formula 1, for example, where AI is already making a significant impact. You’ve got 20 cars on the track, each with the same level of fuel but different tyres, strategies, and mileage. The complexity of managing this in real-time is enormous. If the safety car is deployed, half the cars might be in front of it, and half behind, with the pit lane closed. Teams need to simulate potential outcomes instantly, asking questions like, “If we pitted now and changed tyres, how long will those tyres last?”
AI makes this kind of split-second decision-making possible. It enables teams to hit a button and instantly know the outcome of various scenarios, helping them make split-second decisions that can define a race. This level of precision and efficiency in car development and race execution is what makes AI such a game-changer in motorsports.
Molly’s Perspective
E.ON Next Veloce racing driver Molly Taylor adds:
"Extreme E is pioneering a new era in motorsports, not just in terms of technology but also in how we connect with fans. Unlike traditional racing series, Extreme E is committed to reducing its carbon footprint, which means we don't have the usual grandstands filled with spectators. Instead, our focus is on creating a digital-first experience that brings the excitement of the race directly to fans, no matter where they are in the world.
“This is where AI plays a crucial role. With it, we can analyse fan behaviour in real-time, tailoring content and interactions to what fans are most passionate about. The technology allows us to reach a broader audience on platforms they already love, like social media and streaming services, making motorsports more accessible than ever before. It’s a win-win: we’re enhancing fan engagement while staying true to our commitment to environmental responsibility.
“In a sport that’s all about pushing boundaries, AI is the perfect tool to help us innovate both on and off the track. It’s transforming how we race, how we interact with fans, and how we think about the future of motorsports."
AI in content production and distribution
AI’s influence doesn’t stop at the racetrack; it’s also transforming how we create and distribute content. At Veloce, one of our key areas of focus is broadcasting gaming content globally, reaching audiences far beyond traditional racing channels. Platforms like YouTube and Twitch have become crucial for us, as they are where our audiences consume the most content.
As content aggregators and publishers, the data we gather through AI is invaluable. We can track what content appeals to our audience, how long they’re watching, and how best to distribute it. We’re leveraging AI software to not only edit our content but also to run it through an AI-driven production line, optimizing it for our audience. We now have three channels that are entirely AI-generated, including an F1 news channel.
From an innovation standpoint, we’re currently testing how AI can become a real pillar in our content strategy. We’re experimenting, scaling, and integrating AI into our content calendar. Our audience- hungry for the latest race results, fastest laps, and new game releases – already consumes AI-generated content without even realising it. This is one of the latest innovations we’re proud to bring to the table at Veloce—using AI to manage and enhance our content production line.
AI’s role in the future of motorsports
The integration of AI in Extreme E and across the motorsports industry is reshaping how we approach both the technical and content sides of the sport. Whether it's refining race strategies or revolutionising content creation, AI is driving us towards a more efficient, data-driven future. At Veloce, we’re excited to be at the forefront of this innovation, exploring the endless possibilities AI offers.
As the motorsport world continues to evolve, one thing is clear: AI is not just a tool; it’s a pivotal part of our strategy and a key driver of our success in this fast-paced, ever-changing industry.