For a decade, a team of idealistic professional designers in Winnipeg, Canada, has been working on a low energy car called Urbee (standing for: Urban Electric with Ethanol as back-up). This self-funded effort has resulted in a unique design, created by a committed and talented group. The challenges facing this team of 30 members, as they continue to build their car, are formidable but achievable. They anticipate that the publicity gained by entering the X PRIZE will attract more people with a similar vision who want to help push this unique ultra-efficient approach of the automobile to a successful conclusion. Stay tuned to their website as this project unfolds over the coming year, and see how you can become part of the solution.

When asked what sets Urbee apart, Jim Kor, the founding member of the team, said “We began with computer simulations of a virtual car undergoing typical city and highway trips. This gave us a deep understanding of the energy it takes to move a car that rolls on smooth asphalt and plows through an ocean of air. Urbee has been designed, from the ground up, to achieve the least energy for movement, while still remaining useful as a car. When the energy necessary for movement becomes low enough, only at this critical threshold does renewable energy become a practical alternative for powering the car. We are then able to conceive of driving a roadworthy car on the power in sunlight alone.” When asked why he is part of the Urbee team, Bruce Sewart indicated “If we are to successfully substitute alternative energy sources for fossil fuels, we need to develop practical solutions like Urbee.”