In Venezuelan oil town, solar-powered car offers escape from fuel lines

FILE PHOTO: Jose Cintron, a 43-year-old electrical technician, sits in a solar-powered car he developed, in Maracaibo, Venezuela August 30, 2022. REUTERS/Jose Angel Nunez

MARACAIBO, Venezuela (Reuters) - In Maracaibo, the once wealthy Venezuelan oil city, two innovators are trying to push a new trend: small electric and solar-powered cars that offer an alternative for people fed up with regular fuel shortages and long lines as the gas station.

José Cintron, a 43-year-old electrical technician, has developed a solar-powered car, while Augusto Pradelli, 61, has created a micro electric vehicle (EV) that can also use solar panels. Both cars are built on the frame of old golf carts with more powerful batteries.