The automobile is nearly a century old, and like aircraft, ships and a myriad of other 20th Century innovations it has come a fantastically long way in such a relatively short period of time. Continuing this trend, we are going to take a look at some of the most exciting of tomorrow's cars which feature some damn cool technology; from eco-friendly hybrids to big-city (small-parking-space) friendly cars.

The competition to innovate and bring to market these next-generation cars is intense. For one the market for eco-friendly cars is one of the most predictable growth-markets that many struggling car manufacturers can shoot for. The oil is running out, and we're driving more. The next Henry Ford will make his name in the middle of that battleground.

Electricity and Hydrogen power combined into hybrid engines seem to be the way that car developers will solve our overuse of fossil fuels and avoid further contamination of the environment. This is new technology, and working out the kinks and bringing affordable products to the market is the current race.

Another aspect of this next generation of cars is the cool gadgets and features they boast. Car manufacturers pour near limitless effort and resources trying to develop cars that are smarter than we are. The horizons continue to broaden and move away from what we once thought was a magnificent leap in the technological age. DVD players in the headrests are a next-big-thing of the past, now that advanced computers are operating these new "smart cars"; lasers guide them in conjunction with sophisticated GPS tracking, and mounted cameras can provide the driver with a perfect 360 view from his driving seat. Impressive, and a big step up from revolving cup holders on the dashboard that excited us previously.

The Ford Airstream is a retro-futuristic new concept car that features the plug in hydrogen fuel cell system, and an innovative hybrid design that is not only harmless to the environment - Ford tells us - it also has a fuel economy of 41 miles to the gallon. This fuel system, if developed further and put into mass production, could solve the controversy over mass fuel consumption and ultimately the effects cars have upon the atmosphere.

The Airstream's silver capsule-shaped exterior, orange rimmed windows and reflective paint give it a presence that reflects well upon the designers at Ford. As well as its old-time futuristic looks and technological side, the Airstream is a practical vehicle which seeks to make the driver and passenger experience more comfortable and safe. The cabin is accessed via a powered clamshell door or through a three-door hatch at the rear giving the passengers excellent maneuverability and space. The Airstream is a trailer designed for traveling, so naturally it has plenty of room for storage.