The Formula One weekend in Shanghai, also known as the Chinese Grand Prix, served as a dynamic platform to showcase the rapid integration of advanced technologies into the world of motorsports. Innovations ranged from sophisticated racing simulations and high-speed data transmission to the use of AI computing and robotic arms, illustrating how technology has permeated the sport.
In the inaugural F1 Fanzone, Lenovo, a global technology partner of Formula 1, unveiled an AI-powered experience that seamlessly blended racing excitement with cutting-edge technology. Fans were given the opportunity to engage with professional racing simulators, challenging themselves to match or beat the lap times of professional drivers. These simulators incorporated hybrid AI applications, powered by DeepSeek models that run on Lenovo’s AI PCs. The technology provided fans with an immersive, interactive experience, reflecting a growing trend toward enhanced fan engagement through technology.
Lenovo’s role extends beyond the fan experience; the company plays a critical part in managing the immense volume of broadcast data generated during an F1 race weekend. The Event Technology Center (ETC) collects racetrack data, which amounts to an estimated 500 terabytes over the race weekend, the equivalent of 200,000 high-definition movies. This data is transmitted in real-time from the trackside ETC to the Media & Technology Center (M&TC) in the UK, where it is processed and distributed to 60 broadcasters across 180 regions, all within a mere 0.15-second delay. This instantaneous data processing and distribution are essential for global broadcast operations.
The ThinkPad X9 AI PC, developed by Lenovo, was also used on-site to assist the F1 Shanghai staff. These terminals provided natural language command interaction. They assisted staff in a variety of tasks, including document processing and real-time, multi-language translation, highlighting the practical applications of AI in event management.
Analysts have observed the sports industry becoming a key proving ground for AI applications. AI is having a growing impact on athlete training, event management, fan engagement, and smart venue development. Deloitte predicts a significant expansion of the global AI sports industry, estimating it will exceed US$19 billion by 2030.
Complementing the Formula 1 spectacle, the Shanghai Auto Culture Festival, which was held nearby in Jiading District, provided a further demonstration of technological advancements.
At the festival, Jaka robots demonstrated their dexterity by manipulating two TV screens, mirroring content from a main display through complex rotations, separations, and translations. These robots also showcased their ability to dynamically sketch images of a car using light and shadow.
Shanghai-based Jaka specializes in collaborative robots with high trajectory accuracy and dexterity, which are applicable across diverse industries.
