In a surprising new study, neuroscientists have taught rats to drive. But what makes this research even more fascinating is what the rats seem to feel along the way: joy. This discovery could have broader implications for how we understand the role of positive experiences in shaping the brain.
Kelly Lambert wrote the original report, which was posted on www.zmescience.com on Tuesday.
The experiment began with a simple plastic cereal container converted into a rodent-friendly car. Using a small wire as a gas pedal, rats learned to drive forward by grasping the wire. Before long, they could navigate the car with surprising accuracy, steering towards a treat of Froot Loops.
The key finding came when comparing rats housed in enriched environments—those with toys, space, and companions—against those in standard cages. The rats with more stimulating environments learned to drive faster. This supported the theory that complex, engaging surroundings enhance neuroplasticity, or the brain’s ability to change and adapt throughout life.
What started as a quirky experiment soon went viral, capturing the public’s imagination. The project has since evolved, with new, high-tech rat-operated vehicles (ROVs) developed by robotics expert John McManus and his students. These upgraded vehicles, designed like miniature Cybertrucks, are sturdy and rat-proof—complete with indestructible tyres and ergonomic levers.
Despite the technical advancements, the driving rats have presented an even more intriguing question: Why did they seem so excited to drive? Early on, the rats displayed an intense motivation for their training. They eagerly jumped into their vehicles, often revving their “engines” before even starting. This enthusiasm led the researchers to consider something deeper: could the rats be anticipating joy?
The breakthrough came in the summer of 2020, during the isolation of the pandemic. The researcher noticed something unusual in the lab: the trained rats eagerly rushed to the side of their cages, jumping up excitedly—much like a dog when it wants to go for a walk. It wasn’t just about the food—they seemed to be anticipating the drive itself. This sparked a new line of questioning: Could rats experience something akin to joy?
This led the research team to shift focus from the impact of chronic stress on the brain to the role of positive experiences and their anticipation in shaping neural function. As humans, we know that anticipating something enjoyable can have a profound impact on our well-being. Now, it seems that these rats may be showing us the same thing.
The results suggest that positive emotions and the anticipation of rewarding experiences may play a crucial role in brain health, not just for humans but for animals as well. As the study of these driving rats continues, it offers new insights into how both the brain and our behavior can be shaped by the simple joy of anticipating something good.
