A modified Maserati MC20 has become the world’s fastest autonomous car, reaching a top speed of 197.7 mph on the Kennedy Space Center’s 2.8-mile runway. The record-breaking feat was achieved by the Indy Autonomous Challenge (IAC) in collaboration with Politecnico di Milano.
This accomplishment surpasses the previous autonomous speed record of 192.8 mph, set by an AV-21 race car. The MC20 was piloted by artificial intelligence software developed by PoliMOVE-MSU, part of the university’s AIDA (Artificial Intelligence Driving Autonomous) initiative.
“These world speed records are much more than just a showcase of future technology,” said Paul Mitchell, CEO of the Indy Autonomous Challenge. “We are pushing AI-driver software and robotics hardware to the absolute edge. Doing so with a street car is helping transition the learnings of autonomous racing to enable safe, secure, sustainable, high-speed autonomous mobility on highways.”
The MC20’s success highlights the potential for AI-driven high-performance vehicles. Unlike previous records set by race cars, the Maserati is a road-going supercar, demonstrating that autonomous technology can be adapted for consumer vehicles.
Following the record-setting run, a Maserati MC20 Cielo, the convertible version of the supercar, participated in the 1000 Miglia Experience Florida. The same model was also featured in the 2023 1000 Miglia race in Italy, where it covered 60 kilometers in autonomous mode.
Maserati’s foray into autonomous technology aligns with the broader push toward AI-driven mobility. While the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport holds the human-driven top speed record of 304.7 mph, and the Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut aims for 330 mph, the MC20’s autonomous achievement signals a new frontier in self-driving capabilities.
As AI continues to evolve, experts anticipate further breakthroughs in speed and safety, bridging the gap between human and machine-driven performance.