X-factor: cleaner Chelsea tractors?
by Simon Handby in Your car on 25.03.08
Last year we wrote about the Automotive X Prize. A spinoff from the original X Prize, which saw rocket scientists compete to create re-usable earth-orbiting vehicles.
The more earthly version aims to stimulate research and progress on super-efficient cars – setting a benchmark of 100 miles per gallon in real life driving conditions. Last week, the X Prize foundation officially launched the prize, unveiling its sponsor as US car insurance company Progressive, and confirming the prize money at a handy $10 million.
Some 70 teams have submitted a letter of intent to compete in the event, of which we’re disappointed to see that only two are UK-based. Entries to the competition are open for a couple of months yet, though, so there’s still time for you to get down to the shed and unleash your inner Professor Branestawm.
Meanwhile, tech news site The Register reports that Mercedes is bringing its BlueTEC system, which removes the greenhouse gas nitrous oxide from diesel exhaust fumes, to its American SUVs. According to a video on Merc’s US website, “BlueTEC reduces nitrogen oxides by up to 80%”.
The Register points out that it works using a compound found in urine, with technicians ‘topping up’ the tank during routine servicing. The mind boggles.
IMAGE by Flickr user Marcin Wichary
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