Autonomous Racing FAQ: Everything You Need To Know
The following are some questions that students, parents, media professionals and the public ask about our student-driven autonomous racing and how the University of Virginia excels.
What is autonomous racing?
Autonomous racing is an evolving motorsport in which race teams program a computer to operate a wheeled, ground-level vehicle. (In the cases of Indy Autonomous, the cars have Dallara race bodies.) The “self-driving” cars operate using AI, which makes decisions on track in response to obstacles or competing racecars.
Is autonomous racing a sport?
While the vehicles are unmanned, there are sporting elements of teamwork, strategy, endurance involved in the multiple forms of programming and testing that culminate in the race day excitement.
Is UVA’s team any good?
There’s a reason why when you search “autonomous racing” our team’s picture tends to come up. In January 2024, our team rose to best U.S. team, being edged out only by a team from Germany. We were among the inaugural competitors in the Indy Autonomous Challenge, with professor and team principal Madhur Behl having been an adviser in the founding of the competition. Through AI, we constantly keep building on what we’ve learned on track.
Who can participate?
While any student in the UVA School of Engineering and Applied Science will be considered, along with others selectively, the process is becoming more competitive with increased interest. In general, first- and second-year students support and learn from their more advanced peers, who tend to be the ones leading our teams and serving on location as pit crew.
Why do students enjoy participating in the Indy Autonomous Challenge?
Autonomous racing is a mentally challenging, often thrilling sport. Where else will you be allowed to drive a state-of-the-art racecar at speeds between 150 and 200 mph? It also provides for great conversation when you speak to friends, family and potential employers about your involvements at UVA.
How do autonomous racing competitions help society?
Industry, including carmakers with autonomous and semiautonomous vehicles at various stages of development, including currently on the roads, can access what we’ve learned in the relatively safe and controlled conditions of a racecourse, which simulate real word conditions at high speeds.
Where do alumni work?
Alumni of Cavalier Autonomous Racing have gone on to careers at Amazon, Exponent, Leidos, SpaceX and other major employers.
How do I find out more?
More information about Cavalier Autonomous Racing can be found at the following links:
