Most next-generation concept cars have futuristic dashboards and electricity consumption monitors, but the Mercedes F-CELL hybrid roadster is a blast from the turn-of-the-century past. The roadster can only reach a turtle-like top speed of 15 MPH with an operating range of 217 miles. But the eMercedesBenz blog [2] notes that the hybrid shines in the design category, blending the style of the original Benz patent motor car with seating and a front section inspired by Formula One racing vehicles. And with a joystick in place of a steering wheel, you can bet that your favorite old-school computer game fanatic will love the roadster.

Mercedes' hybrid was designed by more than 150 trainees and dual education students at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Sindelfingen, Germany, with the help of employees in the fields of electronic, coating technology, automotive mechatronics, product design, and more.

The F-CELL hybrid probably won't make it to the market anytime soon--let's face it, who besides Jay Leno and some other car geeks would buy it?--but it's still a fun reminder that environmentally friendly cars don't have to share the same high-tech looks. 

[Via Mercedes-Benz [3]]

Related: 25 Ways to Jump-Start the Auto Business [4]