Advanced technologies are the pillars of our racing success:  Massimiliano Bertei, CTO, Ducati

Massimiliano Bertei, CTO, Ducati Motor Holding shares focusing on data analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), and smart software solutions are the key to improve flu dynamic, aerodynamic introducing a new way of conceiving and designing motorbikes. Read the full interview..

How has Ducati been able to consistently set the pace for innovation in the sport of motorcycling?

Racing is deeply ingrained in the DNA of our company. It represents our relentless pursuit of excellence, and our remarkable fusion of human ingenuity and technologies. These pillars form the foundation of our racing success, driving us to constantly push the boundaries and set new standards in the world of motorsport.

In what ways has Ducati incorporated technology into its motorcycles to enhance performance and deliver a superior riding experience?

The racing department is the test bench for all the latest technologies that are implemented a few years later in the road bikes production. On top of this we are able to equip road bikes with technology that are not allowed in the racing environment such as RADAR devices that equip for instance the Ducati Multistrada.

Can you elaborate on the specific technological advancements that Ducati has made in recent years to stay ahead of the competition? 

 The world of MotoGP is extremely innovative and competitive. In a world where every detail and every second is critical, the quality, reliability and power technology solutions are extremely important. On top of engineering improvements made in the last years, nowadays focusing on data analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), and smart software solutions are the key. We are able to improve flu dynamic, aerodynamic introducing a new way of conceiving and designing motorbikes. Our high computing power partnership with Lenovo technologies, we have been able to accelerate both data collection and analysis to shorten the decision-making processes on track. Our collaboration has enabled near real-time data sharing and analytics, accelerating the entire landscape of elite motorcycle racing data analysis.  

How does Ducati collaborate with technology partners and other industry players to push the boundaries of innovation in the sport?

We quickly realized that simply building the most powerful engine or hiring the most skilled riders was no longer sufficient to stay ahead in the highly competitive racing industry. Recognizing the crucial role of cutting-edge technology, Ducati understood that having the best technology partners and access to the latest advancements would be instrumental in pushing the boundaries of innovation and ensuring the success of their team.

To achieve this, we have implemented a comprehensive data-driven approach. One of the key aspects is the collection and sharing of data among all four Ducati teams, which collectively operate eight Ducati bikes. This collaborative effort allows Ducati to amass a massive volume of data, providing valuable insights into various aspects of performance, strategy, and optimization.

The ability to analyze such a vast amount of data is made possible by Lenovo’s High Performance Computing (HPC) and server solutions, both on the track and at the Ducati headquarters.  With Lenovo’s cutting-edge technology, Ducati can leverage the full potential of their data-driven approach, enabling them to make more precise decisions and do so in a shorter amount of time.

By utilizing Lenovo’s HPC and server solutions, Ducati gains a competitive edge in terms of computational efficiency, allowing us to perform complex simulations, aerodynamic and fluid dynamic modeling, and other advanced analyses. These capabilities not only expedite the decision-making process but also enable Ducati’s engineers to fine-tune their designs, test new ideas, and optimize performance, all with the goal of developing superior superbikes.

The collaboration between Ducati and Lenovo exemplifies the importance of leveraging technology partnerships to drive innovation and success in the racing industry. Through the integration of advanced computing solutions and the strategic utilization of data, Ducati can continuously push the boundaries of performance, maintain the highest standards of quality and safety, and deliver exceptional riding experiences for all Ducati riders.

Can you share any specific examples of how technology has improved the safety features of Ducati motorcycles?

In the world of MotoGP, the power and performance of the bikes have reached unprecedented levels. With a staggering power-to-weight ratio of 157 kg per nearly 300 horsepower, these machines are truly extreme. The immense power output combined with the nimbleness of the bikes makes them incredibly challenging to ride, even for the most skilled riders. To overcome this challenge and ensure rider safety, electronic devices have become indispensable.

Electronic aids such as traction control, engine braking control, and anti-wheeling control play a vital role in keeping the bike stable and manageable under such extreme conditions. These sophisticated systems continuously monitor various parameters, including wheel speed, throttle position, and lean angle, among others. By analyzing this data in real-time, the electronic devices can intervene and make adjustments to optimize traction, prevent wheelies, and provide smoother engine braking, ultimately enhancing the overall control and stability of the bike.

Furthermore, MotoGP bikes are equipped with engine protection control systems, which actively monitor the engine’s health and protect it from potential damage. These systems constantly analyze critical parameters like temperature, oil pressure, and RPM, and can intervene to prevent engine failures and ensure optimal performance.

While safety remains paramount in the MotoGP realm, the focus on enhancing rider safety is even stronger in the world of road bikes. The aim is to provide riders with the best available technology to enhance their riding experience while minimizing risks. This includes features like cornering ABS, which allows riders to maintain control and stability while braking even in challenging cornering situations. Airbag technology has also made its way into road bikes, providing an additional layer of protection in the event of a collision. These airbags deploy instantly and can significantly reduce the impact forces on the rider.

Moreover, the pursuit of safety in road bikes extends beyond traditional features. Advanced technologies such as radar detection devices are being explored and integrated into road bikes to enhance situational awareness and collision prevention. These radar systems can detect and track objects around the bike, providing riders with valuable information about potential hazards and helping them make safer decisions on the road.

As the CTO, what initiatives has Ducati undertaken to foster a culture of innovation within the company?

As the CTO of Ducati, my team and I have spearheaded a range of innovative IT and research and development initiatives, all aimed at cultivating a culture of innovation within the company. Among the many areas of focus, one that stands out prominently is our track data analysis.

To gain a competitive edge and stay at the forefront of the industry, we harness the power of data derived from approximately 50 sensors embedded within our MotoGP motorcycles. This rich dataset serves as the cornerstone of our design process, influencing not only our track bikes but also our road bikes. By analyzing and interpreting this treasure trove of real-time information, we gain valuable insights that inform our design decisions, ensuring that our motorcycles deliver exceptional performance both on the track and the road.

To support this data-driven approach, we have established a dedicated high-performance computing (HPC) cluster. This robust infrastructure serves as the backbone of our development and design processes for both our road and racing bikes. Equipped with advanced aerodynamic and fluid dynamic modeling tools, this HPC cluster allows us to simulate and calculate how specific designs and bike features will perform under various riding conditions.

However, we are not content with the status quo. In line with our commitment to continuous improvement, we are actively exploring ways to enhance our HPC infrastructure. Our goal is to optimize its performance, reliability, and flexibility, thereby enabling our engineers to push the boundaries of motorcycle design and deliver even greater performance and innovation to our riders.  This new environment enables us to run aerodynamic and fluid dynamic modeling workloads at racing speed, empowering our engineers to develop new superbikes faster while maintaining the highest quality and safety standard. These initiatives reflect our commitment to leveraging technology and innovation to deliver exceptional riding experiences for all Ducati riders.

By leveraging cutting-edge technology and embracing a data-centric approach, Ducati remains firmly committed to providing our riders with unparalleled experiences and setting new benchmarks in the world of motorcycles.