DOE Launches Contest to Encourage Fuel Efficiency
With the Apps for Vehicles Challenge, the public is encouraged to submit ideas for apps that would help drivers reach the next level of fuel efficiency.
The Department of Energy is encouraging the public to get involved in improving fuel efficiency. With the Apps for Vehicle Challenge, the DOE is searching for the best publically submitted app ideas, product designs, and business plans to increase safety and save fuel and money.
According to the DOE, the country is spending $1 billion a day on foreign oil. It is estimates that fuel efficiency will double by 2025 though the DOE’s Vehicle Technologies Program.
“The Challenge seeks to spur and highlight innovations from vehicle-generated open data,” according to the program’s website. “The data streams are diverse, but generally include text-based information on things like engine speed, brake position, headlights on/off, and distance covered since restart. This vehicle data has long been available to mechanics and technicians using specialized equipment. But by applying open data principles, individuals will be able to readily access this on-board data directly through Bluetooth, USB and other standard hardware.”
There are also cash prizes ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 for those who make it through Phase I of the contest.
“Phase I of the Challenge will cast a wide net to gather compelling ideas, business plans, product development plans, and very-early-stage products (“Ideations”) that address the Challenge’s goals,” according to the program’s website. “Phase I concludes with a selection of Finalists that will be permitted to continue into Phase II.”
For more information on the initiative, visit the DOE website or the Apps for Vehicles Challenge, where ideas can be submitted.