Western Sydney slides into the innovation hot-seat, with the launch of the Australian Motorsport Innovation Precinct at Sydney Motorsport Park
The first stage of the Australian Motorsport Innovation Precinct (AMIP) at Sydney Motorsport Park has officially opened with the $10 million trackside motorsport technology hub already home to a number of innovative businesses.
Developed by the Australian Racing Drivers Club (ARDC), with support and investment from the NSW Government, the precinct was inspired by the Silverstone Innovation Park Precinct at the iconic Formula 1 Grand Prix circuit in the UK, which houses more than 70 businesses specialising in engineering, electronics and software development.
“The Australian Motorsport Innovation Precinct was a key part of the NSW Government’s $32 million investment in Sydney Motorsport Park.” said NSW Minister for Sport, Steve Kamper.
“This project comes on top of our investment in a major track extension and the installation of permanent circuit lighting at the circuit, as well as upgrades to Sydney International Dragway which includes a new world-class surface, grandstand and lighting.”
Officially opened by John Graham, who as well as being the Minister for the Night-time Economy, is the Minister of Jobs and Tourism, AMIP is already home to an array of businesses leading the way in motorsport innovation, including Australian smart helmet manufacturer, Forcite Helmets who have recently moved from Alexandria to its new design and testing HQ alongside the famous Sydney circuit.
“Forcite has motorsports in its DNA, Boyadgis said, so being in a smart precinct on track is an exciting opportunity for our company.”
“Forcite Design Engineers will now be able to collaborate with the industry’s best and test our technology on a world-class track day and night. I have no doubt this will help us speed up innovation.
Forcite shares the trackside facility with other leading tech businesses, including AGI Sport which houses its Formula Four race academy in the new building, and the University of Western Sydney which uses AMIP for testing and development of its innovating solar vehicles.
Natalie Turmine, President and Chair of the ARDC said the opening of the AMIP building was the first step in creating an Australian high-performance technology and motorsport hub.
TEST: PETE VORST