AI research is on the cusp of major automation, with leading labs anticipating a shift from a few thousand human researchers to hundreds of thousands of AI agents running operations. By 2026, these AI systems could autonomously improve their capabilities, effectively creating a workforce that requires neither sleep nor sustenance. OpenAI, at the forefront of this movement, expects to deploy hundreds of thousands of automated “interns” within nine months and a fully automated workforce within two years. The implications of this shift are significant, raising questions about how AI will evolve and what that means for the industry. The author emphasizes that the real debate isn’t whether automation will happen, but how it will unfold and what effects it will have. Two potential scenarios are outlined: one where AI progresses quickly but remains in the realm of existing generative capabilities, and another where we see groundbreaking advancements—like AI systems that not only enhance themselves but also innovate in unexpected ways. The metaphor of a Bugatti illustrates these outcomes: one scenario reflects incremental improvements, while the other envisions AI reaching new heights of capability that fundamentally alter its role and impact. Policymakers are urged to pay close attention to these developments, balancing the need for caution with a level-headed approach. The author argues that rather than getting caught up in sensationalism, it’s important to engage with the practical implications of automated AI research. The piece sets the stage for further exploration in the next installment, suggesting a call for targeted policy actions to address the changes that automation will bring.