Unveiling the power of innovation - Vodafone's Mobile Private Network transforms Extreme E-racing

Extreme E is a radical off-road racing series in the most remote corners of the planet impacted by climate change. Eight teams, consisting of one male and one female driver, racing to highlight global issues and inspire the next generation. Ten races across five incredible locations, highlighting the effects of climate change and how Extreme E works with changemakers to be part of the solution. Racing starts with two qualifying sessions, each consisting of two five-car heats. Then, a pair of official races determine the event winner. Qualifying is designed so that each team competes in two heats, one for each session.

The first sport to ever be built out of a social purpose, Extreme E aims to minimise environmental impact but maximise awareness, racing in places that have already been damaged or affected by climate change, taking fans deep into the heart of the most pressing issues facing our planet's future. Not only that, but Extreme E is also helping the car industry develop future-facing technology using racing as a platform for road innovation, accelerating change tenfold.

Extreme E is committed to having a net-zero carbon footprint by the end of its first season, alongside the foundation of legacy initiatives at each destination on its calendar that help protect ecosystems impacted by climate change.

Creating and harnessing the Vodafone Mobile Private Network (aka Private 5G**) technology

Vodafone and Extreme E have built a robust and symbiotic partnership, leveraging Vodafone's cutting-edge technology to support and enhance the Extreme E racing series operations.

In the ever-evolving realm of technology, Vodafone's Mobile Private Network stands out as a game-changer, particularly within the high-octane world of motorsport. Purpose-built as a nomadic Private 5G network, it is designed with a wide range of applications and robustness to ensure accessibility in some of the world's most remote locations. Engineered to be lightweight yet temperature-controlled to withstand extreme weather conditions, it pledges reliable and stable connectivity. Read more by clicking here.

The nomadic architecture of Vodafone's bespoke Private 5G solution is tailor-made to travel with the Extreme E series, demonstrating flexibility and responsiveness to the unique needs of each race venue.

Why Private 5G?

In simple terms, a Private 5G network is like having your own isolated, high-speed cellular network. Imagine you're at a significant event, like a sports game or a music festival, and everyone is trying to use their mobile phones simultaneously. The regular public 4G or 5G network might slow down or get overloaded because of the heavy traffic. However, if the event organisers set up a Private 5G network, it would be like giving VIP passes to specific devices, ensuring they get fast and uninterrupted internet service.

In a nutshell, a Private 5G network is a supercharged, exclusive connection that ensures everything from video streaming to machinery operations runs smoothly and efficiently without being affected by public network constraints.

Our Vodafone team proposed an innovative Private Stand-alone 5G network tailored specifically for each race to deliver the necessary throughput for seamless video distribution, from the thrill of the racetrack to race control, ensuring comprehensive connectivity across various endpoints. Read more by clicking here

What are the benefits of a private 5G network for Extreme E (ExE)?

Private 5G networks offer numerous benefits to sporting event organizers, enhancing operational efficiency and spectator experience. Specifically for Extreme E, Vodafone's solution is predicated on a nomadic architecture that travels in tandem with Extreme E. Both the Core and Radio Access Network (RAN) are encapsulated within a self-contained trailer, facilitating rapid deployment at each race site.

The global nature of Vodafone's infrastructure and expertise complements the international stage of the Extreme E series, allowing the partnership to thrive in diverse environmental and logistical conditions. Vodafone works closely with local partner operators and government bodies in various countries to meet regulatory requirements. This collaboration aspect highlights Vodafone's commitment to legal and operational integrity. By ensuring compliance with local regulations, Vodafone facilitates the smooth execution of Extreme E races across the globe.

Bringing technological improvements to Extreme E, its partners and its fans

By leveraging Vodafone Private 5G technology, the Extreme E organisers can provide an exceptional experience for partners while streamlining operations and ensuring the smooth running of each Extreme E event.

Harnessing exciting innovations

One of the remarkable features of this innovation is guaranteed connectivity, coupled with extremely low latency, ensuring comprehensive track coverage. This facet alone heralds a new era of high-speed data connectivity, especially in areas where traditional Wi-Fi and radio solutions have often faltered.

Ongoing collaboration allows for continuous feedback and improvement of the technological solutions provided, ensuring they meet the evolving demands of the Extreme E series. Vodafone's Private 5G network continually adapts to offer better coverage and increased throughput, addressing previous connectivity challenges in race locations.

The joy of innovative collaboration

Partaking in this project has been an exhilarating venture, most notably due to its global nature. Collaborating with various on-site and remote organisations has fostered a rich environment for exploring new procedural digitalisation. Both entities invest in future-proof technologies, ensuring their collaboration remains at the forefront of motorsport and communication advancements.

The collaboration between Vodafone and Extreme E is a testament to strategic alignment, technological innovation, and a shared vision of sustainability and excellence. The partnership meets current operational demands by combining Vodafone's state-of-the-art communication solutions with Extreme E's ambitious goals and adventurous spirit. It sets the stage for future advancements in racing and connectivity.

In conclusion

The transformative journey of Vodafone's Mobile Private Network within Extreme E is not merely an operational overhaul but a testament to the formidable potential of pioneering technology.

With extraordinary connectivity, strategic collaborations, and innovative digital enhancements, Vodafone is powering races and propelling the future of digital communication. Through seamless integration, advanced technological support, and a robust understanding of each other's operational needs, Vodafone and Extreme E exemplify successful collaboration in the modern digital era.

Stay updated with our endeavours and witness the future unfold!