It can accommodate up to 4 people and can operate autonomously.

Cars in space are not a new idea-just ask Elon Musk. But Xtend Design is ensuring that the legacy of the earth's automotive industry will not be lost in the shuffling as mankind extends its existence to the stars. 

Earlier this month, the company announced the concept of an electric lunar rover at an event during Czech Space Week. The aircraft is called Luniaq, based on NASA's MMSEV (Multi-Mission Space Exploration Vehicle) platform, and drew inspiration from Skoda Enyaq. It is easy to see the echo of Skoda's elegant and angular design theme in the rover concept.

This electric car was designed by Xtend's space architect Tomas Rousek, who worked on concept missions to the moon and Mars at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. 

Rousek said in a statement: "We want to inspire people to understand how we can continue to develop our technology gradually and one day live and drive outside of the earth."

The vehicle uses Michelin’s puncture-resistant Tweel tire technology, and its large windows are made of transparent aluminum, making it more durable than glass against flying debris and micrometeorites.

The polyethylene layer can protect the astronauts from radiation, and the stereo camera installed on the top of the aircraft will investigate the terrain and assist its autonomous operation. 

It also includes a "suit port" at the rear of the rover, allowing astronauts to directly enter their suits without risking dust or other particles entering the cabin. The solid-state battery powers the vehicle and can be charged through the solar panel on the roof.

Whether the design will eventually go into production is anyone’s guess, but it’s encouraging to see the world’s enthusiasm for establishing a foothold in the universe.

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