Tiny, eco-friendly concept cars were all the rage at the Frankfurt Motor Show last week. Audi, Volkswagen and Opel revealed similar single-driver vehicles with open-wheeled frames intended to reinterpret the traditional commuter car. While the style may be hard to swallow at first glance, the futuristic cars boast zero-emissions and are designed to navigate efficiently through bustling cities. The battery in Audi’s Urban Sportback can charge within one hour, and the company shared potential for a wireless rig that would allow drivers to park into designated spots and charge their car automatically.
Also on display was the hydrogen fuel cell luxury sedan from Mercedes-Benz, which features a zero emission system as well as gullwing doors. With its ultracool exterior, one wonders if the traditional styles of cars may soon become obsolete as sustainable transportation continues to evolve.