Progressive Automotive X-PRIZE gets the Green Flag

William Atkins
Sunday, 23 March 2008 18:24

Science - Energy

Ultimately, the awards will be given out after a multi-stage road race now scheduled to begin in September 2009 from New York City, and last into 2010. The cross-country races will involve such parameters as distance traveled, top speed, urban and interstate driving, and overall vehicle performance.

The 100 miles per gallon standard differs depending on the fuel used by the competitors.

For instance, diesel fuel must get at least 113 mpg because a gallon of diesel fuel has more energy than standard gasoline. Ethanol has less energy per gallon so is only required to get about 66 mpg.

Other fuels, such as natural gas, electricity, etc. will have their miles per gallon requirement based on a model developed by Argonne National Laboratory (Illinois).

Currently, hydrogen gas is not one of the approved fuels because hydrogen re-fueling stations are not available across the United States.

The official press release from the X-PRIZE Foundation and Progressive Insurance is “X PRIZE Foundation & Progressive Insurance Join Forces to Officially Announce the $10 Million Progressive Automotive X PRIZE.”

If you would like to enter the competition, go to Prize Details.