Last weekend (7/8 October), the 2023 British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) season reached its thrilling conclusion at Brands Hatch – and so too did Getac’s fourth consecutive year as a key partner of the series.
Over the last four seasons, Getac and the BTCC’s partnership has continued to go from strength to strength. Getac became the BTCC’s title technology partner in 2022, bringing new levels of digital innovation to race weekend operations with the introduction of rugged technology to replace manual paper-based systems. In 2023, the BTCC continued its digital transformation with the introduction of Getac rugged video solutions across the pit lane. Getac has supported the rollout from start to finish, troubleshooting complex technical issues, providing skills-based training to drivers, pit crews, stewards, and much more.
Getac worked closely with the BTCC to develop rugged devices and video solutions that work seamlessly together to improve the racing experience for teams and officials every race weekend, even those taking place in remote locations.
During intensely competitive races, every second counts for officials and teams who are often spread out over large areas, making real-time circuit communication challenging. Offering video communications at the trackside helps race engineers and scrutineering officials avoid delays and improve accuracy. With a clear view of the issues, engineers can also connect with technical teams from powertrain providers and gain quick responses for technical support or validation.
Getac rugged devices and video solutions are also aiding collaboration between team technicians and manufacturers pre/post-race, greatly aiding vehicle repair and maintenance processes. The innovative new system, currently being pioneered by West Surrey Racing, uses proprietary Getac collaboration software to connect technicians in the pit lane to master engineers at major automotive manufacturers in real-time via video link. Doing so means technicians can work directly with manufacturers to visually identify and order any replacement parts that may be required for urgent repairs, as well as discuss/be guided through repair processes by in-house experts.
The same camera and collaboration software also allows teams to liaise with BTCC/TOCA race team officials for technical understanding or compliance checking, helping solve issues before they depart for the race circuit or meeting site. It’s easier for teams to review compliance details before they leave the shop, meaning there is less work to do at the race circuit itself.
“As the curtain comes down on another thrilling BTCC season, the series has never been in a better position from a technology perspective,” says Alan Gow, Chief Executive of the BTCC. “Digitally transforming our key processes, with the help of Getac, has not only streamlined operations both on and off the track, but it’s also helped us deliver more exciting racing than ever before, which is the ultimate goal of every racing series.”
“Getac’s partnership with the BTCC focuses on using the power of digital technology to optimise the racing experience for everyone involved with the series, from teams and drivers to officials and fans,” says Russell Younghusband, Global Automotive Director, Getac. “But the technology being showcased isn’t only applicable to racing teams. Much of what’s being used can be just as valuable to technicians and engineers in traditional dealerships and workshops around the world. Whether using rugged devices to perform diagnostics, or collaborating with in-house experts on tricky repair jobs, motorsport has always been the test bed for technology with much wider applications and this partnership is no exception.”
About Getac
Getac Technology Corporation is a global leader in rugged mobile technology and intelligent video solutions, including laptops, tablets, software, body-worn cameras, in-car video systems, interview room equipment, digital evidence management and enterprise video analytics solutions. Getac’s solutions and services are designed to enable extraordinary experiences for frontline workers in challenging environments. Today, Getac serves customers in over 100 countries spanning defence, public safety, ambulance, fire & rescue, utilities, automotive, natural resources, manufacturing, transport, and logistics. For more information, visit: http://www.getac.com. Participate in the Getac Industry blog or follow the company on LinkedIn and YouTube.
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For more information contact:
Chris Gibbs – chris.gibbs@vol4comms.com
