Courtesy Chevrolet reviews the Industries-Exclusive Performance Data Recorder which allows you to Record, Share and Analyze Your Driving Experiences

6/25/2014

Introducing the all-new Performance Data Recorder (PDR), available on all 2015 Corvette models. This fully integrated video and telemetry system allows drivers to record their scenic drives or track experiences while capturing real-time performance data, then watch video playback, analyze their technique and share their drives on social media.

“The Performance Data Recorder combines the ability to record and share drive videos with the power of a professional-level motorsports telemetry system,” said Tadge Juechter, Corvette chief engineer. “Drivers can easily record and share their experiences driving down the Tail of the Dragon in North Carolina or lapping Road Atlanta. In addition, with the included telemetry software, users can analyze their laps in incredible detail, and find opportunities to improve their driving and lap times.”

The PDR system includes three major components, all seamlessly integrated into the Corvette Stingray interior. First is the 720p high-definition camera, mounted within the windshield header trim, which records the driver’s point of view through the windshield. Audio is recorded via a dedicated microphone in the cabin.

Second is a self-contained telemetry recorder. The system uses a dedicated GPS receiver that operates at 5 Hz, five times faster than the in-dash navigation system, for more precise positioning and corner traces. The recorder is also hardwired into the vehicle’s Controller Area Network (CAN) to access vehicle information, ranging from engine speed and transmission gear selection to braking force and steering-wheel angle.

Finally, the system features a dedicated SD card slot in the glove box for recording and transferring video and vehicle data. Recording time depends on the capacity of the memory card, but an 8 GB card can record approximately 200 minutes, while a 32 GB card stores up to about 800 minutes – more than 13 hours of driving time.

The PDR system has four separate modes, tailored for different driving experiences: Track Mode shows the maximum level of data on the screen, including speed, rpm, g-force, a location-based map, lap time, and more. Sport Mode shows fewer details on the overlay, but features key data including speed and g-force. Touring Mode shows no data overlay; it simply records and displays video and audio of the drive. Performance Mode records performance metrics such as 0-60 mph acceleration, 1/4-mile speed, elapsed time, and 0-100-0 mph runs.

The resulting video — with real-time data overlays — can be viewed on the vehicle’s 8-inch color touch-screen (when parked) or downloaded to a computer for further editing and sharing via social media sites.

But don’t just watch and share your drives. Dive into them. The PDR system, which was developed with Cosworth, the supplier of the Corvette Racing team’s data acquisition system, can actually help improve your driving technique with its post-drive analysis software. Comb through the data with a race-derived program that acts as a virtual driving coach. Cosworth Toolbox driving analysis software allows you to load your experience straight from the memory card and easily review your performance and lap metrics.