The 2008 Design Los Angeles Challenge will see something different from Mercedes: a solar-electric concept inspired by a theme of motor sports racing in the year 2025.

Developed by the Mercedes-Benz Advanced Design Center of North America, the so-called Formula Zero vehicle is a fusion of "the thrill of Formula One, the track dynamics of the bobsled or luge, and the grace and efficiency of yacht racing," the automaker says. On a technical level, the concept aims to deliver optimal efficiency, while extracting the maximum thrust from the electric hub motors, aero-efficient solar skin and high-tech rigid sail.

For more on the 2008 Design Los Angeles Challenge and Formula Zero, including more photos, go here.