Automotive X Prize News: Dec 7th, 2009

A quick update on the Automotive X Prize. Many more teams have dropped out: Design Judging Complete: Over Half of All Entries Eliminated. This is actually expected: in the final stretch now, many teams are probably realizing that their car just isn't going to be finished, or just isn't working out (and thus won't be competitive). The image above shows the teams map from July (left) and December (right), a visual illustration of how many are gone. The teams page now lists only 42 teams.

In early November, the Automotive X Prize people hosted a three day "team summit" gathering, where teams got a huge download of information and requirements. This information included safety information, background on the Guidelines, help with PR, etc. They now face some stiff deadlines for some deliverables: Team Summit Day #1 - Three Deliverable Periods Begin December 15. Team Summit Day #1 - Teams Get Schooled in Competition PR and Social Media.

Aptera had a big shake up, and won't be shipping cars until late next year (if ever). The founders have all been booted, they are down to 20 employees, and due to inability to raise funds, are almost out of cash. Autopia: Aptera Founders Ousted in Boardroom Showdown, Gas 2.0: Aptera's Troubles: Get the Full, Inside Story Here.

Autopia: Tesla has a factory for the Model S.