SCI FI PI

As we have known for some time now (yet, oddly, forgot to mention) former Soviet-bloc stalwart Hungary is a futuristic hub of free thinking and groovy technology. And it looks like they'll be dragging the rest of the planet both screaming and kicking (literally) into an oil-free 22nd century.

The Antro Solo solar/electric/petroleum hybrid is the car for the space-age - and the stone age! Not only does it reach around 129 kph (80 mph) whilst getting 63 kilometres per litre (150 mpg) using a combination of solar cells and electric motors as well as a back up reservoir of petrol, but it is also, wait for it, pedal powered.

That's right. You can now be the Flintstones. For around $19,000.





Whenever the sun stops shining (like that'll ever happen after all the icebergs melt!) you can supplement your solar energy by getitng your two passengers to pedal along, genereating enough electricity to keep the car whizzing along. The solar cells, however, keep the car charged for trips of around 20k.





The car seats three (two passengers on either side of the driver) and looks like something out of AI. It's extremely light, and because of it's extremely cheap price, is being touted as the leader of the next generation of hybrids. It looks set to hit the road by 2012.




If you want to get the original lowdown (the orignal Hungarian lowdown) go to their website, Antro Solo Duo. Lots more sexy pics. And remember - tomorrow belongs to the Hungarians!