The X-prize Foundation showcases and rewards cutting-edge innovations in fields that have the potential to benefit humanity.
The Automotive X-prize is for fuel efficiency. Sponsored by the Progressive insurance company and partially funded by the Department of Energy, it was given in three different vehicle classes. Regardless of the class, the cars had to be safe, "commercially viable" -- meaning only that they had to perform more-or-less like a regular cars -- and they had to get at least 100 miles per gallon or the equivalent.
The contest was launched in 2008. Beginning this summer, the 136 vehicles that entered -- representing 111 teams from around the world -- were winnowed down through a serious of tests. Besides fuel economy, cars were also tested for things like acceleration, braking, handling and maneuverability.
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