The world of automobiles is witnessing a paradigm shift with the rise of electric vehicles (EVs). These technological marvels, characterized by their silent operation, are redefining the concept of speed and acceleration in the automobile industry. Unlike their gasoline counterparts, electric vehicles provide instant torque, leading to rapid acceleration and impressive performance metrics.

Renowned innovators in the electric vehicle industry have been vocal about the superior advantages of EVs. For instance, Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, has repeatedly emphasized how their models, with their advanced electric powertrains, outperform traditional vehicles in terms of acceleration.

The future of speed seems to be electric. Experts predict a continued trend of EVs breaking speed records and setting new standards in the industry. The 'silent but powerful' force of electric vehicles is not just transforming our roads, but also the very essence of what we perceive as speed and performance.

The world of autonomous speed machines, more commonly known as self-driving cars, is rapidly evolving with technological advancements pushing the boundaries every day. These vehicles are not just about eliminating the need for a driver; they hold the potential to redefine the concept of speed entirely. At the heart of these advancements lies the powerful force of Artificial Intelligence (AI).

AI enables these machines to perceive their surroundings, make decisions, and navigate obstacles, mirroring the actions of a human driver, but with increased speed and efficiency. Tesla, Waymo, and other leading companies in the field are continuously employing AI to enhance the speed and safety of their autonomous vehicles.

Industry experts share a similar optimism about the role of AI in shaping the future of speed machines. They predict a future where AI-powered vehicles will dominate the roads, offering not only greater speed and efficiency but also unprecedented levels of safety. However, they also warn that the road to this future is lined with challenges that need to be overcome, including regulatory hurdles, public acceptance, and ensuring the technology's foolproof reliability.

As we move forward into an era of technological advancements, the possibilities for the future of speed machines are boundless. From the integration of artificial intelligence to the development of new, more efficient propulsion systems, speed machines are poised to undergo significant changes in both design and performance. These technological shifts could lead to the creation of faster, safer, and more environmentally friendly vehicles.

In terms of design, there is a clear trend towards sleek aerodynamic shapes that minimize resistance and maximize speed. The use of lightweight materials, such as carbon-fiber composites, is also expected to become more prevalent. These design elements, combined with advances in propulsion technologies, could result in speed machines that are faster and more efficient than ever before.

On a larger scale, these advancements will have profound implications for the automotive industry and society as a whole. On one hand, faster and more efficient vehicles could lead to significant reductions in travel time, boosting productivity and potentially even transforming the way we perceive distance. On the other hand, the increasing speed and complexity of these machines will bring new challenges in terms of safety and regulation. As we stand on the precipice of this high-velocity future, it is clear that the journey ahead will be as exciting as it is unpredictable.