The Auto XPrize draft is out - they are asking for public comment (by end of May).

The original XPrize (Space) seemed simpler to describe: put a vehicle in space (100km), capable of carrying 3 people, twice within 2 weeks.

This prize's goals seem more complex and do not capture the imagination as simply:

- 100 MPGe (gasoline equivalent energy)
- 200 g/mi CO2 emissions, production cost limits, CO2 emission caps for production.
- Fixed timeline for awarding the prize. The Space X-Prize was not on a set schedule (though may have had an expiration date). The Auto Prize will be awarded in 2009 according to the current proposal.
- Requiring a business plan for production and sale of the vehicle.
- Two classes: mainstream (4 person, 4 wheels), and l alternative (2 person ... would a motorcycle qualify?) The alternative class receives 25% of the total prize money.

Seems to me that on-board solar may be a big component in this prize - as it can provide "free" energy (will not count against MPG, and will have zero emissions). Another alternative could be human power. If you're carrying 4 people, you might as well have them all peddling!

Note that any fuel source can be used (e.g., liquid hydrogen, compressed hydrogen, compressed air, batteries, etc.). But the contest will count the "energy inputs" into the vehicle and convert to gasoline-equivalent energy. If you use compressed air, the AXP will "charge" you for the amount of electricity used to power your air compressor. Any "exotic" fuel (like hydrogen) - will have the burden of making the case the the infrastructure will be available to deliver the fuel to the mass market.