Automotive X-Prize

[Ryan Foley]

Interesting article about the new X-Prize competition to build a car that gets at least 100mpg. Two classes, one for 4 seat/ 4 wheel versions, and one for 2 seats with no wheel requirement. All entries must be production ready.

http://www.autobloggreen.com/2007/04/02/automotive-x-prize-draft-rules-released/

[Tytus Gerrish]

gallon of what? im shure a gallon of liquified hydrogen could get me further than a gallon of hemp oil

[artdutra04]

Interesting article about the new X-Prize competition to build a car that gets at least 100mpg. Two classes, one for 4 seat/ 4 wheel versions, and one for 2 seats with no wheel requirement. All entries must be production ready.

http://www.autobloggreen.com/2007/04/02/automotive-x-prize-draft-rules-released/I was just looking through their draft rules, and it sounds like Tesla Motors (http://www.teslamotors.com/) could enter their Roadster right now without much additional effort in the Alternative class. Their Roadster already has the equivalent of 135 MPG, a top speed of 130+ mph, and a range of 250 miles, and is currently set to begin production this year.

[nuggetsyl]

IF you go to the xprize web page they say 100 miles per gallon or its equivalent.

[Greg Perkins]

Hrm,
I wish I had more of a chemistry oriented mind, rather than a mechanical one. I think that enlies the problem, trying to find the perfect fuel that is cheap but also economical and efficient. Now I wonder if the rules will allow for a higher fuel consumption if accelerating, because it would seem plausible to get 100mpg after reaching cruising speeds. If I was to enter this, I would investigate the route cylinder shut-down, and fuel thinning. Maybe look into the use of bio-deisel, and seeing what you can do to common waste products to make them effiecient.

*sigh*
I wish I was more talented than I am.

[nuggetsyl]

I was just looking through their draft rules, and it sounds like Tesla Motors (http://www.teslamotors.com/) could enter their Roadster right now without much additional effort in the Alternative class. Their Roadster already has the equivalent of 135 MPG, a top speed of 130+ mph, and a range of 250 miles, and is currently set to begin production this year.

I rember reading in articals before this draft came out that price was going to be a huge factor. If that is true teslamotors would have to lower the price by 60,000 or so. We will have to wait and see when all the rules come out.

[Elgin Clock]

/me wonders where my old school project in the club I was President & VP of is sitting right about now.

http://www.autoauditorium.com/TdS_Reports_2003/photos_005.html

http://www.solarquest.net/Schoolhouse/Task.asp?id=2174

http://www.foveal.com/ATdS_Report_2000.html#Report49

It would get the prize hands down. :) Good times.

[gblake]

And we have a winner(s)!

See this article in Machine Design:
http://machinedesign.com/article/lightweight-aerodynamic-efficient-designs-win-progressive-insurance-automotive-x-prize-0113

PS: On a separate note, I also like the annual, sort-of thick "Suppliers Guide" issue Machine Design sends me.