XR-3 is a 225 mpg hybrid with electric/diesel engine

Hybrid cars are getting a lot of attention there days, since global warming is transitioning from scary tale to nightmare. XR-3 is a three wheel prototype that it’s very likely to see the light of day very soon. As every respectable hybrid, performance is measured in miles per gallon, and XR-3 does e very respectable 225 mpg.

XR-3 has a love of hate design. I don’t love it…

If you take out the diesel engine, XR-3 has just 40 miles range running with electricity. The electric motor powers the rear wheel, while the front axle is connected to a diesel engine. Design is pretty unusual, as you might expect from the three wheel configuration.

To keep costs down XR-3 will be delivered in pieces and plans, so you’ll have to assemble it yourself. What I don’t understand is why hybrid cars don’t look like regular models. Diesels look the same as petrol powered cars, why hybrids shouldn’t do the same. For me that’s a mystery, but maybe when hybrids will outnumber regular cars, designers will focus more on their appearance.

Product page (via Gizmodo)