For this piece, I asked ChatGPT to share its thoughts on what mobility may be like in the next decade or so, especially about trends in the automotive industry. Though I outlined a list of questions, some succeeding ones largely depended on what AI’s responses were to those previously asked. Which means the interview went as if I were chatting face-to-face with an auto executive. The difference was that we discarded the perfunctory pleasantries. And that ChatGPT did not offer me coffee.
But it did articulate its thoughts well enough. Not surprising, it echoed expert projections and opinions without promoting a brand — as any auto executive would. Here is the future of mobility, according to ChatGPT (with minor edits on its responses):
InSight: What do you see are the top five trends that will become the norm in the next 10 years?
ChatGPT: In the next decade, key automotive trends include (1) the widespread adoption of electric vehicles due to sustainability and emission regulations; (2) the advancement of autonomous driving technology, particularly in commercial and urban applications; (3) the integration of IoT for smart, connected cars, enhancing infotainment, diagnostics, and V2Xcommunication; (4) the growth in ride-sharing and subscription services, reducing private ownership; (5) an increased focus on eco-friendly materials, sustainable manufacturing processes, and circular economy practices.
InSight: But EV adoption has not been as brisk as originally forecast, with some carmakers even dialing back their timelines on the shift to fully electric vehicles. Do you think EVs will still become popular in the near future?
ChatGPT: EVs will still gain popularity, driven by stricter emissions regulations, improving battery technology, and increasing infrastructure investment. While adoption has been slower than expected, consumer interest in sustainability and government incentives will continue to grow. The pace may vary by region, but as costs drop and range anxiety lessens, EVs will eventually become mainstream, especially in urban areas and markets with strong environmental policies.
InSight: How big or how small a role would EVs play in the development and adoption of the other mobility trends you cited?
ChatGPT: EVs will play a significant role. Their electric architecture is ideal for autonomous driving due to simplified powertrains and compatibility with advanced sensor systems. In connected vehicles, EVs enable better integration with IoT and V2X technologies for smart, data-driven mobility. In shared mobility, EVs are suited for fleets due to lower maintenance costs and environmental benefits, supporting more sustainable urban transport models. Finally, EVs are central to sustainability, driving reductions in carbon emissions and encouraging the use of renewable energy. Together, these trends create a more efficient, eco-friendly mobility ecosystem, with EVs as a cornerstone.
InSight: What challenges would impact the development and adoption of these technologies?
ChatGPT: Geopolitics can disrupt supply chains and create trade tensions, affecting resource dependencies (e.g., lithium for batteries). Policy shifts, such as tariffs or environmental regulations, can either accelerate or hinder progress. Additionally, energy policies and global cooperation on standards will influence infrastructure development. Economic instability in some regions may slow the adoption of costly technologies like EVs, autonomous systems, and connected vehicles.
InSight: It seems building the new generation of cars will become trickier because of these. How can AI respond?
ChatGPT: In the factory, AI can improve supply chain management by forecasting demand and optimizing inventory. It can also contribute to process automation by streamlining production with robotics and smart scheduling. Additionally, AI can aid in design optimization by simulating performance and materials for more efficient, sustainable manufacturing.
InSight: So there are obviously processes which AI can manage. But would AI be also capable of doing creative tasks like designing cars?
ChatGPT: AI can assist in creative tasks by using generative design algorithms. These algorithms can explore countless design possibilities based on input parameters like aerodynamics, materials, and aesthetics. AI can also analyze market trends and customer preferences to recommend design features that align with current demand. While AI can’t fully replace human creativity, it can enhance the design process by providing new ideas, optimizing efficiency, and speeding up iterations. Collaborating with designers, AI can contribute to both the functional and aesthetic aspects of car development.
InSight: Some humans, like car enthusiasts, love cars. Is AI capable of developing the same passion?
ChatGPT: No, AI cannot develop emotions like humans. While it can analyze data and simulate human preferences, AI lacks subjective experiences, emotions, and personal connections that fuel passion. Car enthusiasts derive joy from the aesthetics, performance, and cultural significance of cars — qualities that AI can understand logically but not experience emotionally. AI can assist in enhancing car designs or performance, but it won’t share the human love for cars or any emotional attachment.
That said, I guess getting offered coffee is out of the question. For now, at least.
