1. Neural Concept, founded by Pierre Baqué, made a leap from pedal bikes to Formula 1 in just six years, with their AI-based technology aiding in the development of the world’s most aerodynamic bicycle in 2018.
2. The company’s software, Neural Concept Shape (NCS), has been used by four out of 10 Formula 1 teams, as well as aerospace suppliers like Airbus and Safran, earning a $9.1 million Series A raise in 2022.
3. NCS helps engineers in various industries, including automotive and aerospace, optimize aerodynamics and make more efficient designs, including advancements in electric vehicle range and battery cooling, with potential applications beyond just racing.
Neural Concept, a Swiss AI-based startup founded by Pierre Baqué, made a remarkable leap from developing the world’s most aerodynamic bicycle in 2018 to providing advanced technology for four out of 10 Formula 1 teams. The company, now at 50 employees, has also secured contracts with aerospace suppliers like Airbus and Safran, raising $9.1 million in a Series A round in 2022 and is gearing up for a Series B round.
Baqué’s first application of the technology, called Neural Concept Shape (NCS), was to design an aerodynamic bike for a cycling team aiming to break speed records. NCS uses machine learning to provide aerodynamic suggestions and recommendations, which proved successful in achieving multiple world records.
The software isn’t just beneficial for racing but also for the automotive and aerospace industries, helping manufacturers improve aerodynamics for better performance and efficiency. NCS is particularly useful for Formula 1 teams like Williams Racing, who are in a rebuilding phase and looking to regain their competitive edge with the help of Neural Concept’s technology.
As AI continues to advance, Baqué and his team at Neural Concept are exploring new applications in the automotive industry, including optimizing electric motors, cabin heating and cooling, and crash testing. While the company has limitations in conducting crash simulations on whole cars, they are continuously pushing the boundaries of their technology with the goal of improving efficiency and performance in various sectors.