AI's Predictions for Cars in the Next 50 Years
Artificial Intelligence (AI) seems to have exploded in the last few years, with millions of people around the world using AI for everything from medicine, technology to exams and academia. But AI can also be used for answering queries and giving us a useful insight to the future. We asked popular AI platform, ChatGPT, a very simple question: 'What are your predictions for the future of cars in the next 50 years?' Within seconds, we had ChatGPT's 10 predictions for the future of cars. Only time will tell whether ChatGPT and AI in general is next Nostradamus when it comes to accurate predictions, or more a H.G Wells and flying cars sort of thing.
Let's dive into what AI sees for us!
1. Autonomous Vehicles
We have already started to see the growth and expansion of autonomous vehicles with the likes of Tesla's self-driving capabilities, although it is not currently permitted on UK roads. In some US States, for example, it is possible to get a full autonomous taxi.
AI predicted that we can expect to see the widespread adoption of fully autonomous vehicles that are capable of navigating and operating without the need for human intervention. AI goes one step further with this and predicts that this will make the roads safer as it will reduce accidents by reducing human error. In addition, it further predicted that the growth of autonomous vehicles will see the growth of 'shared mobility'. This is a concept where we will see the reduction in need for individual car ownership and will rely more on ride-sharing.
2. Electric Vehicles (EV)
AI predicts that battery technology will advance along with the infrastructure for EV charging and that this will result in dominance of electric powertrains. As the technology improves, costs will decrease and these will become a more affordable and convenient option for the masses.
As one key barrier for those considering the switch to EV is range anxiety and charging times, AI predicted that solid-state batteries with higher energy densities and faster charging times will solve this. By allowing for extended range with reduced charging time, more people may be willing to make the switch. Of course, we have already seen plans in the UK to ban the sale of new combustion engine vehicles temporarily put on hold, but who knows what the future holds.
3. Alternative Fuels
We are all aware that EVs won't be suitable for absolutely everyone. It is difficult to imagine long-haul lorries travelling thousands of miles on electric batteries. AI suggested that Hydrogen Fuel Cells could become more common for these types of vehicles. These would be more suitable in regions where electricity is expensive and/or renewable energy sources are in abundance, according to ChatGPT.
Similarly, we could see the advancement of Synthetic Fuels that would be an alternative to fossil fuels. This would us to keep using internal combustion engines, but clean them up and provide less harmful emissions. It would also reduce the need for fossil fuels, which are finite in nature.
4. Sustainability and Environment
There is a big trend with AI's predictions so far largely focusing on sustainability and reducing emissions. This is likely to be in line with world governments pushing for a greener future. AI predicted that cars will be made of more eco-friendly materials, with increased use of recycled and bio-degradable materials. This is reduce the environmental impact of cars at the end of their lifespan.
AI also predicted that we will see the implementation of Zero-Emission Zones. This is akin to the ULEZ is London where drivers have to pay if their vehicles do not meet the emission standard. AI suggested that cities will only permit fully EV or hydrogen vehicles so that no harmful emissions are in said area to improve air quality. With much talk around 15 minute cities (it is best to do your own research on this), it is entirely plausible to imagine city centres with only EVs.
5. Connect Cars
This was an interesting one. AI predicted that cars will be part of the Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem. IoT will see cars constantly connected to the internet allowing for real-time updates, diagnostics and enhanced safety features. Of course, there will be downsides to this too as we become more concerned with our online privacy.
Moreover, it also predicted cars will be on a Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) Communications network. This will allow cars to communicate with each other and with road infrastructure, such as traffic lights and sensors. This will be designed to optimise traffic flow, reduce accidents and improve fuel efficiency.
6. Smart Infrastructure
Related to the V2X discussed above, we could see our road networks become smarter, according to ChatGPT. Roads may be equipped with sensors and communication technologies to interact with the cars on the V2X Communication network.
One interesting development would see Wireless Charging for EVs becoming available. Whether driving or parked, wireless charging would greatly improve the convenience and usability of EVs for more people.
7. Advanced Manufacturing
It may not just be the tech in cars that advances, but the way we build them too. With the growth of 3D printing, we could see it implemented into the car manufacturing process. This would allow for more customisation, more complex designs, faster prototyping and reduced production costs.
On top of this, we may also see the introduction of modular vehicles; cars can be designed with modular components that can be swapped out, easily upgraded or replaced for repairs. Bringing things back to sustainability, this would extend the lifespan of the vehicle and reduce wastage.
8. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
Well it is only right that AI includes itself on its own list. AI predicts that AI will be enable cars to predict what maintenance is needed before they become serious problems. The aim will be to reduce breakdowns and improve driver safety.
What is one thing we have always wanted as drivers? Personalised driving experiences!! Right? Well, AI predicts that it will be able to learn and adapt to our personal preferences and habits to offer high personalised driving experiences. What all are hoping for is that AI can learn if you are middle-lane hogging and politely remind you that it is NOT how you are meant to drive and re-book you in for a driving test...
9. Regulations and Policies
As we have already started to see, Governments are getting stricter on emission standards around the world. AI predicts this trend will continue and we will see much stronger policies and regulations around emission standards in a bid to combat climate change.
We touched on concerns for our privacy in point 5 when discussing connect cars, so it is reassuring to see that AI predicts this will also be hot topic for policy. Data privacy and security will be important as cars become more connected to protect against hacking and misuse of personal data.
10. Economic and Social Impact
More jobs! With the increase in autonomous vehicles and advanced technologies, we could see a whole new world of job creation. Some of these may not even exist at the moment.
Urban planning may also see a shift. If ride sharing and autonomous vehicles grow as predicted, there will be less demand for parking spaces etc.
So, what do you think of ChatGPT and AI's predictions for cars in the next 50 years? It is a lot less far fetched than flying cars and underground roads. Only time will tell, but we have definitely already began to see some of these ideas being implemented.
