[MetroMPG]

Another point to consider ... the $10M prize (if that's what it is - not certain) is chump change to a major auto maker. Perhaps not worth pursuing.

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Going OT, but I'm surprised none of the "second tier" auto makers haven't stepped up to the plate to fill the efficiency void in between diesels and hybrids.

EG: in the same way Honda & GM/Suzuki battled it out for the crown of most efficient economy car in the 90's with the comparatively low-tech Civic VX vs. Metro XFi, surely Hyundai or Mistubishi or Daewoo could carve out a niche by recreating that today minus the added cost of diesel/hybrid.