For the first time, a section of the Nürburgring-Nordschleife has been equipped with a digital infrastructure. The Döttinger Höhe is equipped with cameras, display systems and intelligent software over a length of 2. 7 kilometres. The construction project links the course, which opened in 1927, with the modern infrastructure of the Grand Prix track and the new Racecontrol. The new technology is expected to be used in the upcoming season.

Construction work on the Nürburgring. This is not an unusual picture at the current time of year on the world’s longest permanent race track: construction vehicles are regularly on the Nordschleife in winter – for example, when the asphalt is being renewed. However, instead of the usual road paver or roller, this year an oversized plough is on its way at the Nürburgring. With his help, the skilled workers lay several kilometres of fiber optic cables and power cables there.

“Digital Marshalling” brings flag signals directly into the car
In 2021, the Nürburgring will now test different systems here. Numerous cameras will bring the image directly into the new Racecontrol. A new software with artificial intelligence should help detect hazards faster. In addition, the so-called “digital marshalling” is to be further expanded. With digital display panels, which also display flag signals, those in charge can control what is happening on the track. In addition, the signals and important information are displayed directly to the driver on the display in the cockpit. An important component of the measure on the Döttinger Höhe is also the testing of various power supply options for the entire system.

From the entire test run, conclusions should also be drawn as to what requirements a digitization of further sections of the Nordschleife would entail. With its length and topography, the most demanding race track in the world has special requirements. There are countless square kilometres of forest, hilly countryside and a track layout with many curves, steep gradients and slopes. What has made the Nürburgring so world-famous would make power supply and data processing and distribution a major task in particular.

The project on the Döttinger Höhe is to be completed in just under four weeks. Finally, on the first weekend of March, the first contactless tourist trips of the year 2021.