X PRIZE Contender: Electric Blazer At SEMA!

By Jen Dunnaway

Editor

The Progressive X PRIZE, a race to build a functional 100 mpg, 100 mph-capable vehicle, is getting some serious traction at the SEMA show this year. This ‘85 Blazer, built by Physics Lab of Lake Havasu, is powered by dual electric motors and draws some of its power from regenerative shocks—energy is generated every time they bounce, and it’s then stored in an accumulator under the truck. The Blazer retains its original 4WD drivetrain, and is heavy as hell—it started life at around 5500 lbs, and currently tips the scales at over 7000. Right now it tops out at 80 mph, and needs to gain the 20 that’ll make it a true contender for the prize.  But owner Jim Stansbury wouldn’t have it any other way: part of his mission with this project is to prove that plug-in EV technology is possibe even with a heavy vehicle. It’s some pretty innovative technology he’s working with, and he’s had to do it on a serious budget, funding a lot of the project with personal savings. The next step, in addition to gaining speed, is to figure ways to harness solar-thermal and waste heat to help power the motors. The Blazer is a work in progress, and Jim’s only got until September to finish it. See more pics after the jump, and check out his site.