1 / 9New Autonomous Speed Record Set: A driverless Maserati MC20 Coupe achieved a new autonomous speed record at 197.7 mph (318 km/h). The event occurred at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Politecnico di Milano and the Indy Autonomous Challenge developed the car, marking a key advancement in autonomous driving technology at high speeds.
2 / 9Advanced Italian Technology: The car’s self-driving software came from Politecnico di Milano, Italy’s leading scientific-technological university. They partnered with the Indy Autonomous Challenge, known for prior autonomous racing records. This collaboration combined academic expertise with real-world testing, enhancing the software’s ability to manage a vehicle at extreme speeds.
3 / 9Historic Runway Used: The record was set on the 2.8-mile runway at Kennedy Space Center, previously a landing strip for NASA Space Shuttles. Its length and flat surface suited the high-speed test. No human driver intervened, allowing the autonomous system to fully control the Maserati during the record-breaking run.
4 / 9Pushing Autonomous Boundaries: This milestone shows autonomous technology can operate at high speeds. It challenges AI systems to perform under tough conditions, providing data to improve self-driving cars. The findings will enhance safety and efficiency, influencing the development of autonomous vehicles for everyday use beyond the racetrack.
5 / 9CEO on Technological Impact: Paul Mitchell, CEO of Indy Autonomous Challenge, said, “We are pushing AI-driver software and robotics hardware to the absolute edge.” He noted the record reflects progress in autonomous tech, with the potential to improve safety and sustainability in self-driving vehicles on public roads, not just in racing.
6 / 9Maserati’s High-Performance Specs: The Maserati MC20 Coupe, priced at $239,000, has a 3.0-liter V-6 Nettuno engine. It delivers 621 horsepower and 538 lb-ft of torque, powering the rear wheels through an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The team modified it to integrate the autonomous system for the record attempt.
7 / 9Breaking Previous Records: This speed of 197.7 mph beat the prior autonomous record of 192.2 mph, set by an Indy Autonomous Challenge AV-21 racecar in April 2022. The Maserati reached 177 mph (285 km/h) in November 2024, showing steady improvement in autonomous performance over time.
8 / 9Safety Through Extreme Testing: The team tested the AI’s ability to maintain control at high speeds. Sergio Savaresi of Politecnico di Milano stated, “The goal of high-speed tests is to evaluate the behavior of robo-drivers in extreme conditions.”
9 / 9Future of Autonomous Mobility: The group plans further tests to refine the technology. This record may speed up the creation of autonomous vehicles for public use. The company claims this high-speed autonomous system could soon appear in commercial cars, changing how the automotive industry approaches self-driving technology.
