Ken Black, Performance Motor Sports Data Scientist at GM, discusses the crucial role of data analysis in NASCAR racing, focusing on the challenges and advancements in using Alteryx for performance motor sports data analysis. Topics include improving driver performance, geospatial analysis using Alteryx, and the passion and dedication of individuals in the fast-paced NASCAR world.
Data analysis in motorsports is crucial for interpreting race outcomes and enhancing driver performances.
Alteryx tools aid in real-time data analytics to optimize driver performance and strategic decision-making in NASCAR.
Deep dives
The Importance of Data in Motorsports Analytics
The podcast episode highlights how data plays a crucial role in motorsports analytics, emphasizing that all aspects of racing, from race outcomes to driver performances, are heavily reliant on data analysis. With the massive volume of data generated during races, including telemetry from cars producing up to three million data points per race, handling and interpreting this data accurately at sub-second levels poses significant challenges. The asynchronous and locationally varied nature of racing data adds complexity, requiring the development of frameworks for meaningful comparisons and analytics.
Evolution of Motorsports Engineering
The episode delves into the evolution of motorsports engineering, showcasing a transformation from chaotic races of the past to the current precision-driven competitions. The speaker reflects on the drastic improvements in car engineering, leading to minimal engine failures and near-perfect race performances. The analysis of historical data reveals the remarkable advancements in the sport, demonstrating how meticulously designed rules, enhanced engineering, and top-notch driver skills contribute to close, photo-finish results, creating an atmosphere of excitement and intense competition.
Enhancing Driver Performance Through Data Analytics
The podcast explores how data analytics using Altrix are employed to enhance driver performance in NASCAR. By automating processes and developing computational tools for driver comparison, the focus lies on providing real-time insights to improve driving techniques. The implementation of geospatial data analysis offers strategic advantages, such as selecting optimal pit stops based on historical and spatial data. Additionally, the quick iteration and proof of concept development facilitated by Altrix enables timely decision-making and enhances the overall competitiveness in motorsports.
Data analysis doesn’t just change motorsport racing; it defines the winners. Learn how Ken Black and his team measure and analyze the absolutely massive amount of data that racecars put out on the NASCAR circuit. Ken is tasked with coming up with new ways of looking at data so GM drivers can gain insights on racing and win.
Panelists:
Ken Black – Performance Motor Sports Data Scientist @ GM - @Ken_Black, LinkedIn
This episode was produced by Megan Bowers, Mike Cusic, and Matt Rotundo. Special thanks to Andy Uttley for the theme music and Mike Cusic for the for our album artwork.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode