How Capgemini & Peugeot Tackle Tech Challenges in Motorsport
The motorsport industry faces increasing pressure to balance competitive performance with environmental responsibility, demanding racing teams to develop technologies that enhance vehicle capabilities whilst reducing carbon emissions across their operations.
This challenge is particularly acute in endurance racing, where vehicles compete for up to 24 hours in events that generate substantial environmental impact through logistics, manufacturing and racing operations.
In this context, Capgemini has renewed its partnership with Peugeot's motorsport division to advance the development of the 9X8 Hypercar, which competes in the FIA World Endurance Championship, focusing on using AI to enhance vehicle performance while reducing the carbon emissions of Peugeot Sport's racing operations.
This collaboration reflects the increasing and wider trend in motorsports where technology firms provide expertise to help racing teams meet both performance and sustainability objectives.
Capgemini enhances 9X8 Hypercar performance through AI systems
Over the past two years, Capgemini has created a data engineering platform that processes information from both actual and simulated races by analysing multiple parameters including driver behaviour, circuit conditions and race environments.
The platform incorporates an AI model that operates through virtual sensors embedded in the PEUGEOT 9X8's onboard computer and this system makes real-time adjustments to the vehicle's performance characteristics during races.
“Today, AI has become a key element of our racing strategy, confirmed by improved results at the end of the 2024 season.”
Already, the technology has reduced data processing times from 24 hours to 10 minutes for race engineers analysing vehicle performance.
Now, the next phase of development will use Gen AI to analyse sensor data for anomalies during extended race periods.
The technology will also structure communications between drivers and engineers during endurance races that can last several hours.
Peugeot Sport targets emissions reduction with Capgemini technology
Capgemini has supported Peugeot Sport and its parent company Stellantis's motorsport division since 2022 in measuring and reducing carbon emissions across racing operations – including tracking emissions from vehicles, parts manufacturing, team logistics and event organisation.
The programme has implemented 30 specific initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and the progress is measured through annual assessments with adjustments made based on performance indicators.
Moreover, the decarbonisation measures extend further than FIA World Endurance Championship requirements, by research and development teams that have adopted eco-design approaches in vehicle development, incorporating environmental considerations during parts development without compromising racing performance.
Furthermore, the programme includes engagement with suppliers on emissions reduction throughout the supply chain.
To optimise environmental impact, Peugeot Sport provides calculation tools and facilitates discussions between suppliers and the design office, including other initiatives like climate awareness workshops for employees, optimised travel arrangements favouring maritime freight and the use of renewable biofuel for support vehicles which reduces greenhouse gas emissions by 85% compared to fossil fuels.
Jean-Marc Finot, Senior VP of Stellantis Motorsport, says: "The WEC Championship is an essential discipline for Team Peugeot TotalEnergies. The visibility and prestige of the 24 Hours of Le Mans make it a key event to showcase the advancements and improvements made by all actors in motorsport.
“Beyond the sporting event, we play a pioneering role in sustainability by developing tomorrow's technologies.”
Global sports sponsorship supports technology development
The partnership adds to Capgemini's broader global sports sponsorship strategy that also partners with sporting events including the Rugby World Cup and Ryder Cup.
Andrea Falleni, Chief Executive Officer of Capgemini in Southern Europe and Member of the Group Executive Board, says: "We are delighted to continue our collaboration to enhance Peugeot Sport's performance, both in terms of sporting results and the environmental impact of motorsport, by providing the latest AI technologies and our expertise in decarbonisation."
Jean concludes: “Today, AI has become a key element of our racing strategy, confirmed by improved results at the end of the 2024 season, particularly at Fuji and Bahrain."
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