Compressed air vehicle.

New York, New York – French company MDI Group and Zero Pollution Motors (ZPM) have showcased MDI’s newest compressed air vehicle at the New York International Auto Show. The vehicle made its first public appearance at the Automotive X PRIZE booth at the show.

The new MDI car is one in a series of vehicles to be developed by MDI for production in various markets worldwide. The vehicle is powered by a compressed air engine invented by MDI founder Guy Negre, and features zero tailpipe emissions and high energy efficiency.

ZPM and MDI intend to compete for the Automotive X PRIZE, an independent and technology-neutral competition open to teams from around the world who can design, build and bring to market vehicles capable of an equivalent of 100 mpg US (2.35 L/100 km) that meet market needs for price, size, capability, safety and performance, along with consumer appeal. MDI and ZPM will enter two vehicles in the competition.

ZPM said it plans to produce a six-seat, four-door family-sized version of its compressed air vehicle to the U.S. market. The ZPM model will achieve over 100 mpg US equivalent and over 90 mph (145 km/h) capability, have zero to low CO2 emissions, offer plenty of space for luggage, meet all safety requirements, and cost no more than an average economy to midsize vehicle. The first ZPM-manufactured compressed air car is expected to roll off the production line in 2010 and cost around US$18,000.