(Wed 28 Mar 07)

SEAT Sport UK is pioneering new technology that could soon deliver a driverless touring car.

Developments in electronics, virtual reality and on-board computers have enabled the SEAT team to create "probably the most advanced remote control car in the world".

The unique Leon Touring Car could potentially join the two other SEAT Sport track cars – operated in more traditional fashion by humans Jason Plato and Darren Turner – in the 2007 Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship. Using a system developed in the UK by SEAT, called Telematics Remote-Information Control Kit, the car is controlled with help of numerous on-board cameras, microphones and a plethora of computer data.
 
At its first outing in Rockingham, the "Virtual Leon" put in a lap time marginally quicker than both Plato's and Turner's. Key to the whole project is SEAT UK Motorsport Manager Scott Dennis (below), who controls the car from the pit-garage.

"This amazing car's development has been a huge learning curve," said Scott. "But we are now at the stage where it could soon be used in a touring car race – maybe even as soon as Sunday 1 April, which is the very first race of the season at Brands Hatch. This Leon is so rapid I'm beginning to question if I'll need drivers at all next year."

Jason Plato, the BTCC driver, was surprised to be outpaced by a car with no one in it. "Obviously it’s a bit disconcerting being passed by an empty car when you're giving it your all, though I have to say it does have a fair old weight advantage over every other touring car."

Plato's observation has already been noted by competitors, who are asking for a significant weight penalty should the special Leon be permitted to race this weekend.  Said Plato: "Normally this would be around 75kg to simulate a driver's weight, but in the case of Scott, a special 'Pub Ballast' of 160 kg has been suggested."

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