Looking back to 1968, Arthur C. Clarke predicted a computer who’s intelligence had risen to the point of self thought. Hal thought for himself. At the time, it was unthinkable. Today, most of us probably think it’s just a matter of time. Of course, when there is new tech floating around, there is always some gearhead who will apply it to cars.

Over at Togelius, a couple of guys with really big brains are applying technology to create video race cars that actually are able to think their way around a race track! They even use a reward system that the neural systems react to, to affect the way the cars drive around the track. They can go for the fastest lap, or they can just try to out do the other car. In that case it becomes like a short track stock car race, where competitors are stuffing each other into the wall.

It has been said for some time that modern Formula 1 cars could be driven by monkeys, but perhaps in the future they will drive themselves! Move over Michael, Hal is movin in.