With increasing competition among hybrid cars today, what could the Venturi Astrolab, achieving only a top speed of around 74 mph, possibly have as an edge? The answer: novelty.

Although it looks like an entry for the 2006 Michelin Challenge Bibendum, this solar vehicle is covered with 3.6 meters of photovoltaic cells but also contains a small 16 kw engine and does not need permanent sun exposure in order to move. Power is also supplied by the last generation nickel metal hydride batteries (NiMH) NIV-7, which are liquid cooled and can be plugged in using its onboard charger. The minimum range of the vehicle is 68 miles, which one would assume could be achieved from night driving or driving in low light conditions. Apparently, there is no maximum range for sunny conditions or locations.

The Venturi Astrolab is lightweight designed with an ultra-light carbon monocoque chassis and is being likened to a flying wing on four wheels. It also emits no greenhouse gases and provides a quiet running.
This two-seater is encompassed by an oversized protection cell in case of a collision and takes the passengers’ weight into account during its dynamic operation.

It appears there is no glass to cover the driver’s and passenger’s heads and that the automobile is not equipped with doors. "The car won’t be available with any glass covering for the moment." Venturi’s Service Marketing Manager Jean-René Ricord goes onto say, "There won’t be any doors on Astrolab. To get in the car, you just put a carbon board on one of the 2 sides of the car, and then you sit on it and pass your legs in the car. It’s a bit sporty but very funny."

Funny or not, the Venturi Astrolab will surely gain popularity when it finally hits the showroom due to its performance, ‘wow’ factor, and novelty. We just try to find out in a couple of years.