Watch The 2015 Corvette’s Performance Data Recorder In Action at Sebring and Spring Mountain
As video games become more life-like, it would appear life is becoming more game-like. This theory comes alive when you look at the 2015 Corvette’s Performance Data Recorder (PDR) which has been unveiled at the 2014 International CES (Consumer Electronics Show) in Las Vegas.
Using a 720p camera mounted inside the windshield header along with an interior-mounted microphone and a dedicated GPS receiver that operates five times faster than the navigation GPS, the Cosworth co-developed PDR system can record your track-day glory and infuse your driving footage with telemetry overlays, which all can be saved to an SD card in the glove box. The footage can then be viewed on the Corvette’s eight-inch display while parked, or the video can be transferred to a computer, so people like me can share the more interesting videos on sites like CorvetteForum.
If you want to go further with the experience, the PDR comes with computer software called Cosworth Toolbox, which allows you to analyze your track data just like a professional racing driver.
The PDR system will be available in the third quarter of 2014 in conjunction with the launch of the 2015-model-year Corvette. Pricing will be announced later this year.
SEBRING INTERNATIONAL RACEWAY
Press Release
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 a 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 – At the Consumer Electronics Show today, Chevrolet announced an all-new, industry-first Performance Data Recorder will be available on the 2015 Corvette Stingray. The fully integrated system enables users to record high-definition video, with telemetry overlays, of their drive 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 (PDR) system was developed with Cosworth, the British motorsports-engineering company that also 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 the 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 Hz, five times faster than the in-dash navigation system, for more precise positioning and corner traces. The recorder is also hard-wired into the Stingray’s Controller Area Network (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 8GB card can record approximately 200 minutes, while a 32GB 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 – no data overlay; it simply records and displays video and audio of the drive
• Performance Mode – records performance metrics, such as 0 to 60 mph acceleraiton, 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.
The Cosworth Toolbox application overlays recorded laps on a Bing-enabled satellite map of the track, and features an easy-to-use interface to compare 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 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, proving you with real-time feedback to improve your driving skills.”
About Chevrolet
Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world’s largest car brands, doing business in more than 140 countries and selling more than 4.5 million cars and trucks a year. Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature spirited performance, expressive design, and high quality. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.
About Cosworth
Cosworth leverages its brand and motorsports-inspired engineering and manufacturing capabilities to supply electronics and powertrain technologies to premium high-performance vehicle manufacturers. Cosworth was founded in 1958. With headquarters in Northampton, UK, the company employs staff across Europe and the USA. Cosworth can be found at www.cosworth.com.
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