Ai and Supercar Design
AI is evolving and influencing all aspects of car design, so how is it changing the world of supercars specifically?
Supercars have always represented the highest level of automotive engineering and cutting edge technology. Traditionally, this development has been the domain of an elite number of skilled engineers and master craftsmen leaning on decades of experience. Each supercar manufacturer has a deep history and almost mythical understanding of their cars and how to develop the next generation of models which will excite the market. How can the rapid deployment of AI and new working practices blend with years of experience and pure intuition?
AI and Aerodynamics
Possibly the most significant role AI plays in supercar design is in aerodynamics. AI models and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations are now in play within all supercar design outfits and no longer the expensive play things of the biggest outfits. Even the smallest manufacturer can take advantage of complex AI algorithms to enhance shapes, create innovative bodywork solutions and even design new ways to develop the structural integrity of their cars. The speed in which AI allows companies such as Ferrari, McLaren and Lamborghini to design and test new shapes and elements allow them to maximise performance without compromising durability.
New Materials
The use of AI has started a revolution in the way supercar makers are looking to build their cars. New AI inspired materials such as modern carbon fibre composites and graphene infused polymers are going to provide supercars with new technologies to embrace in order to keep weight down whilst also providing increased strength and safety. Car design AI has also branched into new research into bio-inspired materials, possibly transforming the way all cars are manufactured learning from the complex patterns and forms found in nature.
The AI models can test these new materials and learn how to improve power to weight ratios in a way engineers could only have dreamt of a few years ago. With supercars at the pinnacle of new developments, we are already seeing work on AI designed metallurgy being proposed for super lightweight alloys capable of withstanding high temperatures and stress loads for use in new high performance engines and motors.
Who knows where the research in new materials will take us? This new evolution in car design has already given us a 3D printed supercar. The Czinger, a US based outfit utilises AI to design, print and even manufacture tailored parts for their car. AI decides the best shape and material for any given problem. Combining manufacture with lasers and metal dust give the Czinger unlimited solutions to choose from, giving the car a futuristic and innovative design. An article on the Czinger and their manufacturing process can be found here
AI influenced aerodynamic design is a big part of modern supercars
New AI discovered materials will revolutionise engine design
New Ways for More Power
AI has already changed the way supercars are powered with innovative modifications to fuel injection timing allowing for enhanced performance and energy efficiency. As we move to electric cars, AI is now essential as part of that development process. AI algorithms can dramatically improve the way energy cells function, leading to far superior ranges and speeds. The switch from traditional fuels to a greener power source will require the complete embracing of AI and the speed of new ideas.
Enhanced Production and Sales
We are now seeing smart factories equipped with AI robotics and automation. The increased efficiency allows for reduced waste and fewer manufacturing issues. The new AI powered robotic arms can produce cars with micron level accuracy, ensuring all components are perfectly aligned, essential when assembling a supercar designed to last years.
AI can also predict all future maintenance tasks for these production lines and build breaks at optimum times into the schedules, minimising downtime and lost build time.
It is now having an influence on global supply chains, logistics and material costs, giving supercar manufacturers the ability to maximise profits and maintain a sustainable business. This extends to the sales teams with new developments in smarter purchasing and inventory management. Dealers can now take advantage of AI to transform the way supercars are maintained and serviced. Predictive AI analytics enable dealers to monitor the wear of cars in real time, giving them the opportunity to engage with the customers to ensure their cars are always in top condition and preventing costly repairs. Read more about smater purchasing here.
AI powered robotic production reduces waste
Maserarti Self Drive Supercar © Mase
How We Drive is Changing
Here is where AI becomes helpful for some, but a hindrance for others. AI can now be deployed to enhance safety and performance through advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), AI controlled traction which can read road conditions making adjustments before the driver is aware they’re needed, providing maximum grip and control. Some drivers feel these are essential in the modern supercar, others however see them as removing the risk and skill behind the wheel. Most supercars attempt to provide a balance between AI interference and raw driver skill. McLaren for example have introduced a Variable Drift Control system (VAD), powered by AI that allows drivers to control the level of traction control intervention in an attempt to offer excitement and stability, unique to each driver’s style.
Much of AI’s involvement will go unnoticed by all but the most experienced driver. Super high performance cars such as Koenigsegg and Bugatti are now packed with assistance to help on the track. AI powered adaptive suspension systems and traction control are now standard in most high powered hypercars.
How we interact with the car is also changing. AI driven voice control and infotainment systems are able to respond to complex instructions, allowing drivers to make adjustments during their journey to how the car responds, a task traditionally only possible when off the road. AI can also keep the driver informed of even the smallest change in telemetry and performance in real time.
The next step is the self-driving supercar. The new Maserati MC20 embraces new AI self driving technology. Although the technology has been around for a while, it has only been recently that new AI breakthroughs have given supercars the possibility of actually using the technology on the road. How long will it be before all supercars have this super power and you have the choice to drive, or sit back and just enjoy the journey? Read more about the AI Supercar here.
What will the Future Hold?
AI is redefining supercar design, as it is in most areas of society. We are only at the start of what is going to be a dramatic change for all transportation, urban planning, energy and resource management. The space in this new future for supercars is unclear, other than drivers will always want the thrill of speed and performance. We will see changes to aerodynamics and power units in the short term and maybe even a completely AI designed and built supercar soon. How the supercar heritage and human instinct is allowed to be part of the process is the question. AI will look for perfection, but not all supercars are perfect, and that can be their charm. The personality of supercars needs to be considered alongside all the technological advances and the marquee that gets that balance right, will be king.
