The Unfunny Joke Continues About Autonomous Car Races

After a few ridiculous races where crazy cars dragged themselves on the track, it’s time for the man versus machine showdown.

In a world faced with social, economic, and ecological crises, organizing races like the « Man vs Machine Showdown » by the Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League (A2RL) at Suzuka Circuit can only evoke a deep unease. Under the pretense of modernity and technological progress, this race pits a car driven by a former Formula 1 driver with a meager record, Daniil Kvyat, against a fully autonomous vehicle controlled by advanced algorithms. While the idea seems fascinating on paper, in reality it swings between foolishness and indecency.

Auto racing has always relied on the very essence of self-surpassing, risk-taking, and human emotion. It is a theater of bravery and ingenuity, values that machines, no matter how sophisticated, cannot embody. This race, presented as a technological showcase, is just a superficial, bling-bling competition simulation. In a world where each dollar could be better spent on more pressing causes, investing millions to watch a driverless car compete against a human is hardly justifiable.

From Circus Games to Artificial Intelligence

When supercomputer Deep Blue defeated the reigning World Chess Champion, Garry Kasparov, on February 10, 1996, a new era opened for artificial intelligence. An AI capable of assisting humans in research and thought. This dismal race will bring nothing to humanity for the simple reason that automakers already have autonomous driving technologies far superior to what will equip the racing car! Negotiating a turn on a circuit is one thing, avoiding a pedestrian is better and much harder.

The spectacle fits into a growing trend where technology seeks to supplant humans, but at what cost? Developing an autonomous race car, packed with sensors and algorithms, represents a technical feat. However, does this feat truly serve humanity or merely fuel a vain pursuit of technological prestige?

The idea that 10,000 spectators might cheer for soulless cars for a prize of 2.25 million dollars raises questions about our collective priorities. Instead of strengthening the links between innovation and humanity, such events deepen the divide where spectacle takes precedence over meaning. If the « Man vs Machine Showdown » signals the future of auto racing, we will soon seek an alternative passion where competition remains a space for humans to push their limits.

READ ALSO: This Aston Martin road car will challenge the 24 Hours of Le Mans!