Midjourney's impression of what cars might look like in 2048 has interesting differences from the images generated using more detailed prompts based on expert research.
Notably, while it sits low on the road, instead of smooth, rounded shapes, it has the angular look of some late 1980s sports cars like the Ferrari Testarossa or Lamborghini
Countach. It looks more retrofuturistic than just futuristic. What does Midjourney know about that we don't? Trends are circular and automotive design is no exception, so perhaps in the years to come, we will see a return to these kinds of long, low cars with hard angles.
If not a vent, the rectangle on the bonnet looks like it could possibly be a compact solar panel, allowing the car to charge from sunlight. This would be in line with predictions that automotive manufacturers will increasingly move away from mainstream fuels and towards more sustainable alternatives.
The spoilers on the back of the car would serve to reduce drag. A feature most commonly seen on race cars and high-performance sports cars, it helps drivers reach higher speeds. Expert predictions suggest that in the future, cars might deploy adjustable spoilers without driver input. These 'active spoilers' are already available in some high-end cars, but this could be technology that more drivers are able to enjoy in future years.
The AI image shows the car ripping through an empty desert landscape, with bright sun bouncing off the gold paintwork. Whether this car is in keeping with expert predictions or not, it certainly makes for a very striking image.
