Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League Launches Dynamic Testing Sessions in Italy with Juju Noda
The Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League (A2RL) launches its inaugural human-crewed vehicle testing outside the UAE, marking a significant expansion into international markets. Currently unfolding in Italy, these test sessions see Japanese driving sensation Juju Noda at the helm. She rigorously tests the SF23 racecar, collecting essential data on vehicle dynamics, GPS trajectories, and driver responses, forming the bedrock of all future autonomous competitions.
Over three days at Imola and Vallelunga, A2RL engineers are testing the racecar's performance under human control in new terrains, transitioning from the familiar Yas Marina Circuit to these demanding tracks. This data is pivotal in refining A2RL's autonomous systems to seamlessly adjust to diverse landscapes as the league pursues global opportunities.
Joining the league alongside ex-F1 racer Daniil Kvyat as a Development Driver, Noda contributes her extensive experience to the team's efforts. The duo undertook significant preparatory work at Yas Marina earlier this year and now share the crucial testing roles in the championship’s second year.
Starting her racing career at just nine, Juju has carved a carport path, emulating her father. With stints in the W Series and Euroformula Open, she now competes in Japan's premier single-seat racing series, Super Formula, which utilises the SF23 racecar.
Reflecting on her new role, Juju Noda expressed her enthusiasm: "Testing the SF23 on iconic Italian circuits like Imola and Vallelunga is thrilling. I am keen to leverage my extensive experience with the racecar to optimise our testing and data capture. Undertaking development for an autonomous vehicle is a novel challenge, and I am eager to embark on this journey with the A2RL team."
Stephane Timpano, CEO of A2RL, added: "Our sessions in Imola and Vallelunga are set to reveal critical technical insights and potentially set the stage for international competitions. Collaborating with Juju, who has thoroughly acclimatised to the SF23 through her Super Formula engagements, is invaluable as we gear up for future AI-driven championships."
