Google Cloud partnership to charge Formula E’s AI future

Formula E has announced a new AI and technology partnership with Google Cloud that will support the series both on and off-track.

The multi-year agreement sees Google Cloud become Formula E’s official cloud technology services partner and official cloud security partner, building on work the two companies have previously collaborated on.

In making the announcement, Formula E listed four areas in which the new deal will help the series move forward as season 11 continues in Mexico City this weekend.

Generative AI will be used to help analyse driver performance, working through vast quantities of data to support driving style as well as race strategy.

Fans will also benefit as Google Cloud’s BigQuery will present viewers with personalised race experiences, with deeper insights and predictions while Vertex AI will present real-time data.

Other areas include increasing cybersecurity and enhancing the work the two organisations are already collaborating on with the GENBETA project.

“We’re thrilled to announce an enhanced multi-year partnership with Google Cloud that will not just increase our technological capabilities but enhance our broader growth and evolution as a championship,” said Formula E CEO Jeff Dodds.

“Partnering with one of the most forward-thinking companies in the world will deliver a step-change for the series in how we’re able to continue producing some of the most exciting and innovative racing in the world.

“Building on previous successes and world records with the GENBETA innovation project, new technology and solutions developed alongside Google Cloud will further enhance the performance and potential of our race cars, providing even faster, closer and more action-packed racing for our fans.

“With continued growth of the series and an ever-growing fanbase of nearly 400 million, it is no surprise that our new and longstanding partner portfolio is seeing increasing value in one of the most innovative and fast-growing sports on the planet.”

The two organisations worked together last year to stage an AI hackathon ahead of the London E-Prix and set a Guinness World Record for the most participants to attend such an event with 1,130 people present.

The event has also been shortlisted in the Pioneering and Innovation category at the Autosport Awards, with the winners announced at a ceremony in London on 29 January.