. The event occurred at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida){kind=link}
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.
🚗💨 New Autonomous Land Speed Record Set by Indy Autonomous Challenge @Maserati_HQ MC20 Driven by Politecnico di Milano’s AI Driver!
— Indy Autonomous Challenge (@IndyAChallenge) March 3, 2025
🔥 Key Highlights:
•IAC Maserati MC20 Coupe reached an astounding 197.7 mph (318 km/h) 🏎️💨 at @SpaceFlorida’s Launch & Landing Facility at… pic.twitter.com/2CUirb2dws
Advanced 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.
Historic 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.
Pushing 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.
CEO 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.
Maserati’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.
Breaking 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.
Safety 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.”
Future 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.
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