Ear accelerometers

Placed inside the driver's ear, these sensors will provide data on head acceleration during a race or accident, including critical information such as how the head is loaded during the split-second of an impact.

Following research from Wayne State University that concluded the US Indy Racing League's ear accelerators were too bulky and could detach at increased frequencies, the FIA Institute designed an advanced sub-miniature model measuring no more than 3 mm cubed. Fully funded by the US Department of Defense, the Endevco accelerometer is on track for delivery in 2009.

Another joint project between the FIA Institute and Japanese microchip company Hokuriku led to the development of a 300g accelerometer chip measuring only 3mm wide and 1 mm deep. Laboratory testing is underway with hopes of introducing the technology into the sport in 2009-2010.