Maserati MC20 hits a top speed of 198 mph without a driver

Indy Autonomous Challenge (IAC) and Politecnico di Milano have set a new ‘Autonomous World Speed Record’ in the Maserati MC20.

The modified MC20 coupe reached a top speed of 197.7 mph on the 2.8-mile runway at the Kennedy Space Centre without a driver on board. It surpassed the previous record of 192.8 mph set by the IAC in an AV-21 racecar.

The MC20 was driven by AI driver software developed by PoliMOVE-MSU – part of the performance division of AIDA (Artificial Intelligence Driving Autonomous of Politecnico di Milano).

“These world speed records are much more than just a showcase of future technology; we are pushing AI-driver software and robotics hardware to the absolute edge. Doing so with a streetcar is helping transition the learnings of autonomous racing to enable safe, secure, sustainable, high-speed autonomous mobility on highways”, said Paul Mitchell, CEO of Indy Autonomous Challenge and Aidoptation BV.

Once the record-breaking test was completed, a Maserati MC20 Cielo convertible joined the convoy of the 1000 Miglia Experience Florida. This vehicle from the Politecnico di Milano, was also part of the 1000 Miglia race in 2023, where it covered approximately 60 km in autonomous mode across Italy.