Lenovo and Formula 1 are testing Lenovo’s new AI PCs to improve technical operations. This collaboration aims to enhance efficiency and support sustainability goals within Formula 1.
Testing AI PCs for Race Operations
Formula 1 and Lenovo recently conducted a trial of the Lenovo ThinkPad X9 Aura Edition laptop at the Event Technical Centre (ETC) during the FORMULA 1 HEINEKEN CHINESE GRAND PRIX 2025. This test explored how AI-powered devices could enhance motorsport operations, particularly in processing race data and improving operational efficiency.
The ThinkPad X9 Aura Edition, featuring the Intel Lunar Lake Platform and Copilot+, was selected for its high performance and energy efficiency. These attributes align with Formula 1’s goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2030.
Roberto Dalla, Chief Technical and Engineering Officer of Formula 1, noted that the laptop’s features, such as Smart Modes, Smart Share, and Smart Care, improved user experience and productivity. He stated that such innovations allow teams to process data more quickly, collaborate, and communicate more effectively to produce the international broadcast.
Dr. Tolga Kurtoglu, Chief Technology Officer at Lenovo, emphasized how the partnership with Formula 1 helps push technological innovation in motorsports, supporting both race operations and fan experience. He highlighted the potential of AI-enabled hardware to streamline content creation and enhance real-time fan engagement.
Impact on Formula 1 Operations and Sustainability
The ETC is a temporary technology hub at each race event, responsible for acquiring data and feeds sent to the Media & Technology Centre (M&TC) in the UK for broadcasting. Lenovo products, including laptops, workstations, and servers, are integrated into the ETC to monitor race operations.
The ThinkPad X9 Aura Edition is expected to streamline communications, improve remote collaboration, facilitate content sharing, and accelerate data processing for faster insights and strategic decisions. Its battery life and durability are also seen as beneficial for performance and mobility.
Additionally, using these AI-powered PCs could help Formula 1 reduce its overall hardware footprint at each race. More capable devices could lessen the need to transport large amounts of equipment, potentially decreasing energy consumption, transportation emissions, and the demand for on-site air conditioning.
Future Collaboration
Following the initial trial in Shanghai, Formula 1 and Lenovo plan to continue testing AI PCs and other technologies throughout the 2025 season. The partnership aims to enhance broadcast operations and improve the fan viewing experience.
