Mercedes to evaluate Luminar laser system for F1 Safety Car

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The Mercedes Formula 1 team has partnered with automotive technology company Luminar to develop a cutting-edge laser debris detection system for its Safety Car.

As a pioneer in LiDar technology for autonomous vehicles, Luminar has already established a strong relationship with Mercedes-Benz and several other automotive manufacturers, collaborating on road-going systems.

But the partnership’s innovative system, equipped with LiDAR technology, aims to revolutionize safety procedures in Formula 1 by enhancing the ability to detect and avoid debris on the racetrack.

LiDAR, an acronym for Light Detection and Ranging, utilizes lasers to create a detailed 3D map of the surrounding environment.

This high-resolution map, combined with AI software, enables precise object detection, even at high speeds and in challenging weather conditions. Luminar's LiDAR system is specifically designed to detect debris, with a remarkable ability to identify objects up to 250 meters ahead and larger objects at distances of up to 500 meters.

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Once operational, the laser detection system will be mounted on the roof of the Mercedes AMG GT Black Series Safety Car, providing real-time data regarding track conditions to race control.

This enhanced situational awareness will enable the Safety Car driver to make informed decisions, ensuring the safety of both the leading drivers and those following behind.

“I have been thoroughly impressed by their journey so far, their technology and the work they have done,” commented Mercedes F1 boss Toto Wolff.

“It is a truly thrilling and innovative area which will have far-reaching implications for the automotive industry and mobility more generally.

“Our collaboration will utilise the initial development work between Luminar and Mercedes-Benz as a bedrock, and I am excited to see how we can build on that.

“Luminar's culture of innovation and entrepreneurship also fits incredibly well with our own ethos and values, so this is a natural collaboration.“

Markus Schafer, Mercedes-Benz AG chief technology officer, added: “The partnership with our F1 team is a natural extension of Mercedes-Benz existing partnership with Luminar to help realise our vision for accident-free driving in Mercedes production cars.

“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.“

As Formula 1 continues to push the boundaries of performance, the integration of advanced technologies like LiDAR will play a crucial role in maintaining the highest standards of safety.

“Luminar’s technology has always been about pushing the limits of performance while improving automotive safety – and with F1, Mercedes-AMG are taking it to the extreme on a world stage of automotive enthusiasts,” Luminar CEO Austin Russell explained.

“The same leading technology developed in partnership with Mercedes-Benz for their production cars will be shared with the Mercedes F1 team, demonstrating performance and safety advantages at any speed from the city, to the autobahn, to the track.“

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.