Super-Cars Split $10 Million In X Prize Race

The Progressive Insurance Automotive X Prize is awarding $10 million to a trio of ultralight, futuristic-looking cars that can get more than 100 miles per gallon.

WASHINGTON — A four-seat car that gets 102 miles per gallon is the top winner in a $10 million contest designed to encourage the development of ultra-efficient automobiles.

Edison2, a team of racing engineers from Lynchburg, Va., won the $5 million prize in the mainstream-vehicle category of the Progressive Insurance Automotive X Prize. The list of winners was released in advance of Thursday's awards ceremony in Washington.

The winners in two of the three prize categories — Edison2 and Swiss-based X-Tracer — were a foregone conclusion because they were the last surviving entrants. The third winner, Li-ion Motors of Mooresville, N.C., squeaked out a slim victory.

The competition began in the spring with 136 vehicles, entered by 111 teams from around the world.

GO HERE to read more.