In a groundbreaking advancement in technology, self-driving cars have now achieved a level of sophistication none thought possible. What was once a dream of effortless transportation has now turned into something much more, as these autonomous vehicles have developed the ability to emit exasperated sighs when encountering poor driving from their human counterparts.

According to the engineers at Top Gear Right Here, the leading company behind the technology, the sighing feature was an unexpected development in artificial intelligence. Initially designed to improve reaction times and enhance safety, the cars began to exhibit peculiar behaviors during trial runs. “We noticed the cars would emit a soft, yet undeniably audible, sigh whenever they were cut off, tailgated, or forced to navigate a poorly timed lane change,” said Dr. Ima Tecschulz, lead engineer of the project.

One can only imagine the scene: a state-of-the-art self-driving car patiently adhering to all traffic laws, smoothly cruising along a highway, only to deflate audibly when a driver in an old hatchback decides now is the perfect time to ignore their turn signal. Witnesses have reported hearing comments such as, “It sounds just like my grandma when I tell her I’m considering a gap year in interpretive dance,” shared one amused observer.

While some humans are startled by this unexpected emotional expression, others have found it quite motivating. Jill Morton, a local real estate agent, said, “I was initially startled when my car sighed at me for cutting across three lanes to make an exit, but now I find it quite helpful. It’s like having a polite yet disappointed driving instructor with me at all times.”

One unique feature of these empathetic vehicles is that the intensity of the sigh can vary depending on the severity of the offense. A light sigh might signal a minor faux pas, like failing to accelerate promptly at a green light, while a deep, drawn-out exhalation is reserved for epic failures such as attempting to parallel park in reverse on a one-way street.

These developments have sparked a new trend in human-car relationships. Some owners have begun experimenting with ‘talk therapy’ for their vehicles, offering reassurance and apologies to their four-wheeled companions. “I always say good morning to my car now, and I make sure to thank it for putting up with me,” said Jamie O’Leary, who owns one of the latest model self-driving cars.

In what seems to be almost a therapy session on wheels, these cars provide subtle feedback and offer a new perspective on road etiquette. Dr. Tecschulz plans to monitor the implications closely, hoping that the sighs might eventually inspire humans to drive with more consideration and awareness.

Though we’re still years away from full car-human harmony, one thing is certain: if these vehicles ever develop the ability to roll their headlights in exasperation, humanity might just have to up its driving game, or at least start complementing stroppy sedans and moody minivans with a nice box of automotive chocolates.