Formula E and Google Cloud bring races to visually impaired fans, here's how it works
Can the visually impaired also enjoy the fun and thrill of a Formula E race? Yes, it's now possible — thanks to a new initiative by Formula E and Google Cloud: an AI-powered audio race report.
This initiative promotes inclusivity and makes motorsport more accessible for blind and visually impaired fans. Google Cloud will work with the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) to conduct focus groups and user testing during upcoming race weekends in Berlin and London, with a full rollout planned for Formula E season 12.
All about the Formula E and Google Cloud project for visually impaired fans
The project was unveiled by Formula E CEO Jeff Dodds at the Google Cloud Summit in London.
It uses Google Cloud's generative AI technology to create rich, descriptive audio summaries of every E-Prix race. These reports will offer fans a dynamic recap that captures the excitement and key moments of each race, available on demand shortly after the chequered flag.
The initiative originated from a Google Cloud Hackathon held during the 2024 London E-Prix. It is being developed in close partnership with RNIB to ensure the final product meets the needs of visually impaired users.
Sharing his enthusiasm about the collaboration, Formula E CEO Jeff Dodds said, 'At Formula E, we believe the thrill of electric racing should be accessible to everyone. This innovative collaboration with Google Cloud is a fantastic example of how technology can be used for good—creating a brand-new way for blind and visually impaired fans to experience the drama and emotion of our sport. By working closely with the RNIB, we are ensuring this innovation is truly inclusive and fit for purpose, so that no fan is left behind.
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John Abel, Managing Director of Specialised Software at Google Cloud, added, 'For too long, the visual nature of racing has been a barrier for fans who are blind or visually impaired. Google Cloud's AI technology will act as a digital storyteller, creating a vivid audio narrative that brings the speed, strategy, and excitement of Formula E to life. We are proud to work alongside a partner like Formula E that shares our passion for using innovation to break down barriers and connect people through shared experiences.
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Image credit: Formula E
Sonali Rai, RNIB's Media, Culture and Immersive Technology Lead, also said, 'Audio description transforms how blind and partially sighted motorsport fans can fully engage in enjoying the full racing spectacle—taking in the visceral sounds of cars on the track while feeling the passion of the crowd.'
She continued, 'RNIB has been working with Formula E and Google Cloud on this AI-powered podcast, which promises to give a full picture of the race in an accessible and engaging way for blind and partially sighted fans.
Formula E's commitment to working directly with the community to develop this technology is exactly the right approach. It sets a fantastic standard in inclusivity for other sports to follow and stay on track with new advances in innovation.
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How the technology works
The audio report is generated through a multi-stage process powered by Google Cloud's AI platform, Vertex AI. Google's Chirp model accurately transcribes live race commentary.
Google's Gemini models analyze the transcribed commentary along with live timing data and other official race information. The AI identifies key events such as overtakes, incidents, and strategic pit stops and generates an engaging, fact-based race summary.
Also Read:
Berlin E-Prix: From Oliver Rowland's World Championship win to Felipe Drugovich's debut, there's a lot to look forward to
The text is then converted into natural, expressive speech using advanced text-to-speech technology, resulting in a polished audio report ready for distribution. The entire process is completed within minutes of the race's conclusion. The reports will be available globally on Spotify and other popular audio platforms in more than 15 languages, including English, Spanish, French, German, Mandarin, and Arabic.
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