From pedal bikes to Formula 1, Neural Concept and its CEO, Pierre Baqué, have made a quantum leap in just six years. In 2018, their software helped develop the world’s most aerodynamic bicycle, now adopted by four out of 10 Formula 1 teams. Contracts with aerospace suppliers like Airbus and Safran led to a $9.1 million Series A raise in 2022 for Neural Concept, now with 50 employees. Their software is assisting historic F1 teams like Williams Racing in reclaiming the top spot in motorsport.

Pedal power

Baqué’s first practical use of the technology was in designing the most aerodynamic bike in the world for IUT Annecy. Multiple world records in 2019 proved the success of the design, made possible by Neural Concept Shape (NCS), a machine-learning-based system for aerodynamic design suggestions.

NCS enhances aerodynamic simulations, offering suggestions and recommendations to engineers. It is widely used in automotive and aerospace industries, with contracts secured from global suppliers like Bosch and Mahle. Beyond racing, NCS aids in developing more efficient automotive components for greater range and performance.

Not just “cheating the wind”

NCS is not limited to racing applications but also aids in automotive and aerospace industries. Its quick and efficient aerodynamic design simulations help companies like Williams Racing gain a competitive edge in Formula 1. NCS significantly speeds up CFD simulations, offering potential advantages in aerodynamic design.

The power of Netflix

Netflix’s “Formula 1: Drive to Survive” has increased F1’s popularity, highlighting the importance of aerodynamics in racing. Neural Concept’s software is used by F1 teams, including Williams Racing, to enhance their aerodynamic performance and simulation capabilities.

Williams Racing utilizes NCS technology to improve their aerodynamic design processes, enabling better results in CFD simulations. NCS helps teams like Williams Racing extract more performance from each run, overcoming F1’s testing restrictions and budget limits.

Beyond aerodynamics

As AI continues to advance, Neural Concept is expanding into non-motorsport automotive applications, focusing on electric motors, cabin optimization, and crash testing. Their software aids in optimizing car crashworthiness and weight reduction, with potential future applications in crash testing entire vehicles.

Neural Concept’s software represents a new era of aerodynamic design and optimization in Formula 1 and beyond, revolutionizing the way teams approach aerodynamics and performance improvements.