Formula E and Google Cloud have expanded their partnership to improve the racing series and showcase the possibilities of an electric future with AI.
Formula E has expanded its partnership with Google Cloud to bring generative AI to the racing series and expand on its GENBETA project that aims to push the boundaries of performance, innovation and sustainability in motorsport.
The series says that genAI “will fuel engineering innovation, optimise driver development and democratise access to cutting-edge tools, fostering a more competitive landscape in the future.”
Tara Brady, President at Google Cloud EMEA, said: “With Google Cloud’s gen AI tools and advanced data analytics, including our Vertex AI platform and Gemini models, we’re helping Formula E supercharge innovation in motorsport.
“Together, we’re pushing the boundaries of sustainable racing, redefining what’s possible on and off the track.”
Formula E’s sustainability mission
Formula E aims to “redefine motorsport and electric racing” and provide a platform to show the capabilities of electric vehicles.
The championship operates as a testbed for new technologies required for an electric, low carbon future.
The GENBETA project is a live development and innovation initiative that involves modifying its race cars to improve its performance.
Reem Al Aboud, a Saudi Arabian woman racing driver, set a new FIA single-seater acceleration benchmark in the GENBETA race car in March 2024, achieving a 0-60mph time of 2.49 seconds.
This is faster than the FIA single-seater benchmark set by current Formula 1 machinery.
Generative AI – powered by Google Cloud – provided real time telemetry performance data to support Reem in pushing the boundaries of motorsport.
She said: “Being a part of this record-breaking moment is a dream come true. It’s not just about the speed; it’s about breaking barriers and showcasing the immense potential of women in motorsports.
“Formula E has given me the platform to make a statement, and I’m honoured to be a part of this journey towards gender equality in racing.”
Google Cloud and Formula E’s expanded partnership will see further integration with this project.
“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,” says Jeff Dodds, Chief Executive Officer at Formula E.
Google Cloud’s sustainability credentials
Google has been carbon neutral since 2007 and aims to run on carbon-free energy 24/7 at all of its data centres by 2030.
It also aims to achieve net zero emissions across its operations and value chain by 2030.
Some of the company’s efforts in this field include signing PPAs for more than 700 MW of clean energy with Shell and Eneco, a new demand aggregation model built in collaboration with Microsoft and Nucor and Community Investment Funds to support long-term energy efficiency.
By 2030, Google also aims to replenish 120% of the freshwater volume it consumes on average across its offices and data centres.
Across its campuses in the Bay Area of California, USA, Google is supporting restoration of native habitats like oak woodlands and willow groves.
It is also pursuing urban greening projects around the world including in London, Munich and New York.
Jeff says: “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.
“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.”
