Honda's R&D is not only about mechanics, but also making innovations in the "brain" of the vehicle, or, electronics. Internavi is a two-way communication car navigation system that uses vehicle telematics system, roots of which go back to 1980's when Honda introduced Telemetry system to Formula 1. Honda has been testing and perfecting this system ever since. Today, the system supports everyday drivers. In 1989 Senna sets the world's fastest lap during the Japanese Grand Prix qualifying in Suzuka. On board his machine was Honda's telemetry system that recorded acceleration/engine data. Using this data and the latest technology, we re-enacted that lap from 24 years ago. Engine sound of Senna's F1 machine McLaren Honda MP4/5 was re-created by combining Senna's driving data collected in 1989 with MP4/5’s engine tones recorded today. Hundreds of networked speakers and LED lights placed along the race line synchronized with Senna down to the millisecond.

Driving data brings back Aryton Senna’s fastest lap from 24 years ago.

First, we had to record the MP4/5’s engine tones. With the cooperation of the client, we finally succeeded to arrange the offer of the actual machine and a driver and the circuit. For the recording and data combining, we requested the engineer who was in charge of the engine sound design in the driving simulation game “GRAN TURISMO®”.

Next, we performed tests to verify whether it is possible to make the sound image position move at 300 km/h and express the sound pressure and power by networked speakers. We also inspected whether the LED lights synchronized with Senna’s location. From videos and books, we researched him thoroughly (racing line, engine sound, atmosphere of the time).

For the actual filming, we tested it on the Suzuka Circuit. Since it was a huge subject, 5,807 meters long and a pitch difference of 52-meters, we encountered various technical problems. The topography, the obstacles, the direction of the wind and the angle of the speakers all made a difference how the sound was heard.

Reproducing it in 3DCG, we simulated the placement and the number of speakers and LED lights. In addition, we calculated the electrical and staffing needs for the day. We applied the know-how of the real F1 race including the control of the electricity.

Finally, we completed the installation and succeeded to bring back Senna’s race through Suzuka once again. And we achieved in making it a documentary film.