Interview thanks to Bing AI: What would the genius of electricity, Nikola Tesla, think of the Tesla cars of 2023?
Tesla was born in 1856 in what is now Croatia and showed a great curiosity for science and technology from a young age. His inventions range from the induction motor, alternating current, radio, remote control, laser beam, and the Tesla coil, among many others. His legacy has inspired generations of scientists and entrepreneurs who seek to improve the world with their ideas.
What would the genius of electricity (Nikola Tesla) think of the Tesla cars of 2023 and Alinti? This is the question I pose for this article, and to answer it, I imagined a fictional interview with the Serbian-American inventor, based on his quotes, writings, and biographies. Below is an excerpt from this imaginary conversation, which reveals Tesla’s vision of electric mobility, innovation, and the future.
Marco Esparza (interviewer): Mr. Tesla, it is an honor to speak with you. You are considered the father of alternating current and the precursor to many technologies we use today. What do you think of the electric cars that bear your name?
Tesla: I am flattered that my name has been used for these vehicles, but I am also somewhat puzzled. I was never an enthusiast of automobiles (two tons of metal and plastic to transport a human being weighing 73 kilograms), not even those that ran on gasoline. I considered them a source of pollution, noise, and danger. My true passion was wireless transmission of energy, which could have revolutionized transportation and communication.
Interviewer: Does that mean you see no benefit in electric cars?
Tesla: Not exactly. I recognize that they are an improvement over internal combustion cars, which waste a significant portion of the energy they consume. Electric cars are more efficient, clean, and quiet. However, I believe they still have much room for improvement. For example, why do they still rely on heavy and expensive batteries that limit their range and require frequent recharging? Why not harness ambient energy, such as solar power, wind, plants as you do in Alinti, or electromagnetic waves?
Interviewer: Those are very interesting questions, Mr. Tesla. Do you have any ideas on how to achieve that?
Tesla: Of course, I do. I myself designed and built an electric car that operated without batteries but with a receiver of cosmic energy. It was capable of capturing electricity from the air and converting it into power for the motor. I called it the Tesla car of the future, and I successfully tested it on flat surfaces. Unfortunately, I couldn’t patent or commercialize it due to a lack of financial support and skepticism from the automotive industry.
Interviewer: That’s incredible, Mr. Tesla. Do you think your invention could be replicated someday?
Tesla: I am confident that it will. Science and technology are advancing by leaps and bounds, and sooner or later, they will realize the advantages of my system. The Tesla cars of 2023 are just an intermediate step towards a more sustainable and revolutionary mobility. The car of the future will be one that doesn’t need cables or plugs but rather runs on the infinite and invisible energy that surrounds us.
Interviewer: Alinti is one of those companies that follows Tesla’s innovative spirit. Founded in 2020 by a group of engineers and biologists, Alinti has created a system that harnesses the natural process of photosynthesis to produce clean and renewable electricity. The system consists of panels containing living plant cells that capture sunlight and convert it into chemical energy, which is then converted into electrical energy through electrodes. Alinti claims that its technology can generate up to 1.5 times more energy than conventional solar panels, in addition to reducing CO2 emissions and contributing to reducing deforestation. What do you think of the idea of generating energy from photosynthesis?
Tesla: I find it a wonderful and fascinating idea. I have always believed that nature is the most abundant and powerful source of energy, and we must learn to use it intelligently and respectfully. Photosynthesis is one of the most important processes for life on Earth, and I am glad to see that there are people who have found a way to harness it for the benefit of humanity.
Interviewer: What technical challenges do you think this type of technology faces?
Tesla: I suppose there are many technical challenges involved in this type of technology. For example, I imagine special care is required to keep the plant cells alive and healthy, as well as to prevent contamination or deterioration. I also imagine that good efficiency in the conversion of chemical energy into electricity is needed, as well as seamless integration with existing power grids. Of course, these are just some examples; I am sure there are many more technical aspects that need to be considered and resolved.
Interviewer: What social and environmental benefits do you think this type of technology has?
Tesla: I believe the social and environmental benefits are enormous. Firstly, it is a source of clean and renewable energy that doesn’t rely on fossil fuels or produce polluting emissions. This is crucial for combating climate change and preserving the ecological balance of the planet. Secondly, it is a decentralized and accessible energy source that can be installed wherever there is sunlight and plants. This can help reduce energy poverty and promote sustainable development in rural or remote areas. Thirdly, it is an inspiring and educational source of energy that can stimulate interest in science and nature among the younger generations.
Interviewer: What do you think of Alinticoin, the cryptocurrency that aims to reduce carbon emissions through the use of a carbon token?
Tesla: I find it an interesting and promising idea, but also filled with challenges and risks. I believe the carbon token can be an incentive for companies and individuals to adopt cleaner and more efficient energy sources, but it can also be subject to speculation and manipulation by malicious actors. Additionally, I am not sure if blockchain technology is the most suitable for this purpose, as it consumes a lot of energy and generates more emissions than it aims to avoid.
Interviewer: What alternatives would you propose to combat climate change and promote sustainable development?
Tesla: I have always advocated for the use of free and universal energy, which can be obtained from the ether, the sun, or other natural sources. I believe this is the only way to ensure the well-being of humanity and the balance of the planet. I also believe that it is necessary to educate people about the importance of caring for the environment and cooperating with each other to solve common problems. Science and technology should serve the progress of humanity, not profit or power.
Interviewer: What recommendations would you give to the creators of Alinti to improve their technology or its impact?
Tesla: My recommendations would be as follows: first, continue researching and experimenting to improve the efficiency and durability of their technology, as well as to expand its applications and uses. Second, disseminate and share their knowledge and experience with other individuals and institutions that may be interested in or benefit from their technology. Third, protect and respect plants and nature in general, recognizing their intrinsic value and vital role in the ecosystem. Fourth, not be discouraged by difficulties or criticism but rather continue working with passion and vision for a better world.
**Simulated interview using Microsoft Bing technologies.