Ford Launches Fuel-Use App Contest

Ford Motor Co. has begun accepting entries from software developers who are vying for $50,000 in prizes for the best mobile and Web-based apps that help consumers save fuel.

The contest, dubbed the Ford Personalized Fuel Efficiency App Challenge, will accept submissions through July 24.

The competition is open to individuals and groups of as many as 50 people. Larger organization may submit apps too, but they are not eligible for a cash prize. Non-developers also can submit ideas for apps and a chance to win $100. Details are available HERE.

Ford's aim is to come up with apps that show consumers how their own driving style affects their vehicle's fuel economy.

A recent poll commissioned by the company found 79% of respondents willing to accelerate more smoothly, 68% to drive slower and 62% to take alternate routes if doing so would significantly improve fuel efficiently. The survey also found that half of all motorists routinely monitor their fuel economy. About three in four are trying to drive more efficiently.

The contest, which was announced in March, is for apps that use the Ford's open-source OpenXC connectivity platform. The company is launching a series of $35 workshops about OpenXC, starting Friday in Allen Park, Mich. Developers can register online HERE.