Introducing the Future of Performance Monitoring: Industry-first Performance Data Recorder for the 2015 Corvette
In a thrilling revelation at the Consumer Electronics Show, Chevrolet has unveiled an unparalleled innovation, setting the automotive world abuzz with excitement. The 2015 Corvette Stingray now boasts an industry-first Performance Data Recorder (PDR), a fully integrated system that allows drivers to capture their exhilarating journeys on the road and the track like never before. With high-definition video and motorsport-inspired telemetry recording capabilities, this revolutionary technology takes the Corvette driving experience to a whole new level. As we delve into the intricate details of this cutting-edge system, you’ll discover how the PDR, developed in collaboration with the renowned British motorsports engineering company Cosworth, is poised to redefine the way enthusiasts record and enhance their driving skills. Join us on this journey as we explore the future of automotive performance monitoring and unleash the power of the 2015 Corvette’s Performance Data Recorder.
Below is a press release from Chevrolet:
Fast Feedback: Corvette Performance Data Recorder
• Industry-first system features integrated video, audio and motorsport-inspired telemetry recording capability
• HD-quality videos can be reviewed in-car when parked, or downloaded to personal computer for sharing via social media
• Data can be uploaded to Cosworth Toolbox telemetry software, similar to that used by Corvette Racing, to improve driver’s techniques and lap times
LAS VEGAS – Chevrolet announced at the Consumer Electronics Show today an industry-first Performance Data Recorder for the 2015 Corvette Stingray. The fully integrated system enables users to record high-definition video, with telemetry overlays, of their driving experiences on and off the track.
“The Performance Data Recorder combines the ability to record and share drive videos with the power of a professional-level motorsports telemetry system,” said Tadge Juechter, Corvette chief engineer. “Drivers can easily record and share their experiences driving down the Tail of the Dragon or lapping Road Atlanta. In addition, with the included telemetry software, users can analyze their laps in incredible detail and find opportunities to improve their driving and lap times.”
The Performance Data Recorder, or PDR, system was developed with Cosworth, the British motorsports-engineering company that supplies the Corvette Racing team’s data acquisition and telemetry electronics system. It will be available with the start of regular 2015 Corvette production, later in the third quarter of 2014. Pricing will be announced closer to launch.
The PDR system includes three major components, all seamlessly integrated into the Corvette Stingray’s interior. First is a 720p, high-definition camera, mounted within the windshield header trim, which records the driver’s point-of-view through the windshield. Audio is recorded via a dedicated microphone in the cabin.
Second is a self-contained telemetry recorder. The system uses a dedicated GPS receiver that operates at 5 hertz, or cycles per second. That is five times faster than the in-dash navigation system and allows more precise positioning and corner traces. The recorder is also hard-wired into the Stingray’s Controller Area Network, or CAN, to access vehicle information, ranging from engine speed and transmission-gear selection to braking force and steering-wheel angle.
Finally, the system features a dedicated SD-card slot in the glove box for recording and transferring video and vehicle data. Recording time depends on the capacity of the memory card, but an 8-gigabyte card can record approximately 200 minutes, while a 32-GB card stores up to about 800 minutes – more than 13 hours of driving time.
The PDR system can record video with three data overlay options, each rendered in real time:
• Track Mode – shows the maximum level of data on the screen, including speed, rpm, g-force, a location-based map, lap time and more.
• Sport Mode – shows fewer details on the overlay but includes key data including speed and g-force
• Touring Mode – simply records and displays video and audio of the drive with no data overlay
• Performance Mode – records performance metrics, such as 0 to 60 mph acceleration, 1/4-mile speed and elapsed time, and 0-100-0 mph runs.
The video can be viewed on the Corvette Stingray’s eight-inch color touchscreen when the car is parked, or downloaded to a computer for further editing, and sharing video via social media sites.
For users who want a more in-depth understanding of their performance, the PDR vehicle data can be opened in the included “Cosworth Toolbox” software, which combines Cosworth’s professional-level motorsport data analysis with an easy-to-use graphic interface. Software such as this will need non functional testing run through it to check on the performance, usability, reliability, etc. so that it can be used to its fullest extent.
The Cosworth Toolbox application overlays recorded laps on a Bing-enabled satellite map of the track, and compares selected laps in detail for any requested point on the drive. Comparisons include corner traces, vehicle speed, and cornering force to help drivers improve their driving consistency and ultimately their lap times.
“The ability to review laps between track sessions can identify immediate adjustments for quicker laps in the next session,” said Juechter. “It’s like having a 32-GB crew chief trackside providing you with real-time feedback to improve your driving skills.”
Source: GM
In conclusion, the Performance Data Recorder for the 2015 Corvette Stingray marks a watershed moment in the automotive world. It seamlessly fuses the joy of capturing your driving adventures with the precision of professional motorsports telemetry. This pioneering technology, born from the collaboration of Chevrolet and Cosworth, empowers drivers to not only relive their moments of glory but also to refine their skills and conquer new challenges. As we look ahead to a future where every twist of the wheel and push of the pedal can be analyzed and improved upon, we invite you to embrace the Performance Data Recorder as a companion on your journey to becoming the best driver you can be. With the Corvette’s PDR, the road to excellence is at your fingertips, and the thrill of the drive has never been more enriching.
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