Autonomous car race series enhances fan experience with Vislink and Focal Point VR technology
Abu Dhabi is set to become the epicentre of a technological revolution in motorsport entertainment as the Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League (A2RL) series, powered by a partnership between Vislink Technologies and Focal Point VR, prepares to launch its first season.
Managed by Aspire, the programme and business development arm of Abu Dhabi’s Advanced Technology Research Council, this collaboration is poised to redefine the fan experience, merging the immersive world of virtual reality with wireless video and data transmission.
The A2RL series kicks off on 27 April at the Yas Marina Circuit, where the thrill of autonomous car racing will be powered by the latest cutting-edge technology. AI-driven Dallara-built Super Formula cars capable of speeds up to 300km/h will compete for a prize pool of $2.25 million.
Focal Point VR has crafted an immersive VR experience that promises to transport fans from their homes directly onto the racetrack, offering a 360-degree, real-time view from the perspective of the AI drivers. This unparalleled access will transform the way fans engage with motorsport.
“We are thrilled to join with two phenomenal innovators in the Abu Dhabi racing circuit — Aspire and A2RL — to advance the future of autonomous car racing and deliver unparalleled entertainment experiences,” shared Mickey Miller, CEO of Vislink. “Our partnership with virtual reality leader Focal Point VR leverages Vislink’s ultra-reliable, low-latency video to connect the excitement of the cockpit with fans everywhere.”
Vislink plays a pivotal role in this unique VR experience with its wireless video and data transmission solution. Onboard Vislink transmitters will ingest IP from the Focal Point VR onboard immersive camera system and deliver live footage, even at the highest speed conditions, from the heart of the races to fans across the globe.
“This collaboration with Vislink for the A2RL Car Race Series is about breaking barriers and setting new standards for fan engagement,” added Jonathan Newth, CEO of Focal Point VR. “We’re thrilled to offer a virtual reality experience that puts fans right in the middle of the action, offering an immersion that’s simply unmatched in the world of sports.”
Stephane Timpano, CEO of Aspire, stated: “For Aspire, this partnership marks a transformative moment in our journey to redefine live event engagement and interactivity. By harnessing the power of cutting-edge technology alongside visionary partners like Vislink and Focal Point VR, we are not only redefining the fan experience in motorsport entertainment but also unlocking new avenues for audience engagement. Together, we are propelling the A2RL series into a new era of immersive entertainment, setting the stage for unprecedented innovation and we’re excited to be at the forefront of it.”