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A Formula E team tried using a female AI influencer to promote inclusion and diversity in racing—she lasted just two days following backlash

Jan 12, 2024 - fortune.com
Mahindra Racing's plan to promote diversity and inclusivity with its AI mascot, Ava, was met with criticism, leading to the project being discontinued after just two days. Ava was intended to interact with drivers and document their progress in the 10th season of Formula E, but fans questioned the choice of an AI influencer over a human one, especially given the lack of female representation in the sport.

The incident highlights the issues raised when AI is chosen over humans. Other companies have also experimented with AI talent, such as Spanish AI model Aitana Lopez and Caryn Marjorie's "virtual girlfriend" persona. However, these attempts have not always been successful, as seen with Levi Strauss's plan to use AI-generated models, which was met with criticism on social media.

Key takeaways:

  • Mahindra Racing introduced an AI mascot, Ava, to promote diversity and inclusion but faced backlash and discontinued the project within two days.
  • Many fans criticized the move, questioning why an AI influencer was chosen over a human one, especially considering the lack of female representation in motorsports.
  • Despite the controversy, AI influencers and models are becoming increasingly popular, with some companies finding them more cost-effective and easier to work with than human counterparts.
  • However, attempts to use AI to promote diversity have been met with criticism, as seen with both Mahindra Racing and Levi Strauss, with critics arguing that real people should be hired to represent diverse identities.
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