The Northeast Sustainable Energy Association has created a new Monte Carlo-style Rally for people with advanced vehicles that reduce petroleum use and greenhouse gas emissions. The event is a new feature of the 17^th annual Tour de Sol competition. $10,000 in awards will be given to the most fuel efficient vehicles in the event May 13–14, 2005.

The prizes will be given to production hybrid or bio-diesel vehicles that travel a minimum of 150 miles, at an average of greater than 60 mpg. A $5,000 prize will be given to the most fuel-efficient vehicle that breaks the 100 mpg barrier. Vehicles can start at any of 15 locations across US and Canada, and must arrive in Saratoga Springs, NY by noon on May 14, 2005.

There will be ten categories of vehicles, with a minimum rally distance of 150 miles, with no limit on range. The Rally finish ceremony and award presentation will be part of Saratoga’s Spring Auto Show on Sat. May 14 at the Saratoga Spa State Park in Saratoga Springs, NY. The categories are:

1. Toyota Prius Classic ('01-'03)

2. Toyota Prius ('04-'05)

3. Honda Insight

4. Honda Civic Hybrid

5. Honda Accord Hybrid

6. Hybrid SUV - Ford Hybrid Escape, Toyota Highlander Hybrid, Lexus 400 Hybrid

7. Custom Built hybrids (modified or built from scratch)

8. Modified Factory Hybrids, including plug-in factory hybrids

9. Biodiesel, and Clean Diesel vehicles

10. Modified BioDiesel or other Diesel vehicles

The organizers have thrown a special challenge to Ford, Toyota and Lexus to see which of the new Sport Utility Hybrids will get the best mileage.

The Tour de Sol competition recognizes advanced vehicles that reduce oil use and greenhouse gas emissions that have good performance and practicality. The competition is open to student and independent teams, as well as vehicle manufacturers. Awards are presented to production and one-of-a-kind cars, trucks, and buses. In 2004, a new competition was created for "around town" vehicles such as electric bikes, scooters, and neighborhood vehicles.

For more information on the Tour de Sol and Monte Carlo-style Rally registration, go to www.TourdeSol.org or call 413-774-6051.