Soon, a laser detection system will be installed on the safety car in Formula 1

The safety car should be modernized. Mercedes and Luminar are collaborating on a laser detection system, having already worked together on technologies suited for mainstream vehicles.

The objective of this new collaboration is to assign laser technology to the safety car. The equipment would be positioned on the roof of the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series. Eventually, if approved by the FIA, this plan would be implemented directly for all race weekends. The technology could provide new and very important data for the teams. « The sensor would create a real-time 3D map of the environment in front of the safety car, notably improving the driver’s ability to assess the situation on the track while maintaining the required high speeds », explained the Mercedes manufacturer.

Detect debris and objects on the track.

Luminar uses a lighting, detection, and telemetry system for its technology. It uses lasers to create a 3D map of the environment. This system allows for precise detection of objects and obstacles in front of the vehicle, especially in bad weather conditions. The American company estimates that its technology can detect debris up to 250 meters away and objects up to 500 meters away.

“I have been very impressed by the progress of their technology and the work they have accomplished,” praised Toto Wolff. “This is an exciting and innovative field that will have considerable implications for the automotive industry and mobility in general. Our collaboration will build upon the initial development work between Luminar and Mercedes-Benz, and I am excited to see how we can further leverage this. Luminar’s culture of innovation and entrepreneurship also aligns incredibly well with our own philosophy and values, making this a natural collaboration.”

Strengthening of the partnership

The two companies are working to integrate security technologies into Mercedes automotive vehicles. This new development is part of the strengthening partnership between the German company and Luminar. « The partnership with our F1 team is a natural extension of the existing partnership between Mercedes-Benz and Luminar to help us achieve our vision of accident-free driving in Mercedes production cars, explained Markus Schafer, Chief Technology Officer of Mercedes-Benz AG. « Mercedes-Benz has always been at the forefront of innovation and safety, and we look forward to continuing our development efforts with Luminar to bring this technology to our F1 team. »

Formula 1 is a championship that is regularly used to test and develop technologies and prototypes for the future of the global automotive industry. Luminar intends to use their work in F1 as a showcase for their various products. Our technology has always aimed to push the boundaries of performance while improving automotive safety, stated CEO Austin Russell. The same cutting-edge technology developed in partnership with Mercedes-Benz for their production cars will be shared with the F1 team. We want to demonstrate the performance and safety benefits at any speed, whether it be in the city, on the highway, or on the track.

The Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series used as safety cars will soon be equipped with this technology.