F1 tests AI-powered Lenovo laptop to boost technical operations

MANILA: Formula 1 and Lenovo have conducted a test using the latter’s artificial intelligence-powered (AI) laptop — the ThinkPad X9 Aura Edition — to showcase how it can enhance the former’s technical operations. 

Per the motorsport organization, the said hardware was put through its paces on-site within the Formula 1 Event Technical Center (ETC) — a temporary and portable technology hub deployed onsite every race event — during the 2025 Heineken Chinese Grand Prix. 

The computer was used for “race data processing” and “operational efficiency.”

According to Formula 1, the trial marked a pioneering moment for AI-enhanced edge computing in the world’s most data-rich sport.

“The Lenovo ThinkPad X9 Aura Edition marks a significant advancement in smart technology, seamlessly integrating advanced features like Smart Modes, Smart Share, and Smart Care to enhance both user experience and productivity, which we had the opportunity to test during the Formula 1 Heineken Chinese Grand Prix 2025,” Formula 1 Chief Technical and Engineering Officer Roberto Dalla said in a press release. 

The Lenovo ThinkPad X9 Aura Edition is powered by the Intel Lunar Lake Platform with Copilot+. As a result, the machine is considered as energy efficient as it is highly capable. 

Its application in the ETC could enable Formula 1 to streamline communications, enhance remote collaboration, enable seamless content sharing across devices, and accelerate data processing to deliver faster insights and smarter strategic decisions. 

Further, the Lenovo ThinkPad X9 Aura Edition’s all-day battery life and military-grade durability can help drive faster performance-enhanced mobility, and lasting operations, which ultimately result in a richer, more immersive experience for fans worldwide. 

“It was exciting to see our innovative AI PC (personal computer) tested in one of the most high-pressure environments — during an F1 Sprint weekend,” Lenovo Chief Technology Officer Doctor Tolga Kurtoglu commented. 

“Through our partnership with Formula 1 we’re able to push the boundaries of technological innovation in motorsports — not just to support race operations, but to create unforgettable experiences for fans around the world. This recent trial highlights the potential of AI-enabled hardware to streamline content creation, accelerate storytelling, and help fans feel closer to the action in real time,” he added. 

The said trial highlighted that Lenovo’s high-performance PCs can help Formula 1 reduce its overall hardware footprint by relying on more capable devices. Aligning with the race organization’s pursuit of being a sustainable company by the end of the decade, the use of Lenovo’s products can decrease the need to ship large quantities of equipment from race to race, allowing Formula 1 to cut down on energy consumption, transportation emissions, and the demand for air conditioning onsite. 

Aside from the Lenovo ThinkPad X9 Aura Edition, Formula 1’s ETC uses other products from the Chinese tech company, which includes other laptops and tablets to workstations, monitors, servers, and Motorola smartphones. 

Formula 1 and Lenovo will continue to explore opportunities to test AI PCs and other cutting-edge technologies throughout the 2025 season. 

Also read: 

Formula 1 renews partnership with Lenovo

Lotus honors Senna’s 1st F1 victory at Estoril by fielding 97T race car

Formula 1 gets Sting as official energy drink partner

Connect with us through our various social media pages:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZigWheelsPhilippines

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zigwheelsph/

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@zigwheels

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ZigWheelsPhilippines/