Once seen as a passing fad for those that could afford them, hybrid vehicles have come very far in terms of energy efficiency and design over the last decade. The inspirational Nimbus e-Car, however, takes hybrid automotive design to a whole new (and adorable) level. Created by Brazilian artist and designer, Eduardo Galvani, this all-terrain electric minibus is a concept e-car made for serious energy conscious road warriors who want to travel in style.

 

The Nimbus runs with a 130Kw (180hp) electrical engine lithium-ion battery that works in conjunction with the car’s micro combustion generator. Additionally, a rooftop array of solar photovoltaic cells generates even more energy for the car’s needs and a regenerative brake mechanism lets the car conserve as much kinetic energy as possible.

 

The body of the car is built with strong and lightweight materials such as carbon fiber, titanium and aluminum, all chosen for their low energy consuming properties. In addition to the car’s environmental-conserving properties, the Nimbus also offers adventurous drivers a full panoramic glass windshield and on-demand four-wheel drive.

 

Due to its lightweight build and stocky stature, the Nimbus is perfect for adventure and exploration applications, but that doesn’t mean it needs to go completely off the grid. The five seater offers a variety of all-encompassing for today’s tech-savvy driver such as an onboard wi-fi hub and is equipped with quite a few USB ports and power outlets. A 7-inch tablet can be found in the center consule and features data from the on-board inclinometer, altimeter and weather station. The tablet also controls the car’s audio system, lighting, temp control and navigational information.