Maserati's modified MC20 supercar has set a new autonomous driving world speed record of 197.7 mph at Kennedy Space Center's Launch and Landing Facility, surpassing the previous record by 4.9 mph.

The achievement came through the Indy Autonomous Challenge, with the PoliMOVE-MSU team from Politecnico di Milano developing the AI driver software. The record run took place on the same 2.8-mile runway previously used for Space Shuttle landings.

This latest achievement also exceeded the previous production car record by 20.7 mph, which was set by another MC20 at Piacenza Military Airport in Italy last November.

Professor Sergio Matteo Savaresi, the project's scientific director, explained that these high-speed tests evaluate AI systems' performance in extreme conditions. The technology has been tested in production vehicles at legal road speeds since 2021 through the Indy Autonomous Challenge races.

The Indy Autonomous Challenge, launched in 2021, serves as a platform for university teams to develop self-driving technology. The competition has evolved from initial time trials and obstacle avoidance challenges to include overtaking challenges at various prestigious racing venues including Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Texas Motor Speedway, and Monza.

Paul Mitchell, CEO of Indy Autonomous Challenge and Aidoptation BV, emphasized that these speed records demonstrate the potential of AI-driver software and robotics hardware for future autonomous mobility applications.

Additionally, a Maserati MC20 Cielo participated in the 1000 Miglia Experience Florida convoy, following its successful 60-kilometer autonomous drive during the 2023 1000 Miglia race in Italy. This collaboration between traditional racing heritage and autonomous technology represents a significant step forward in the evolution of automotive innovation.

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