"I find it alarming that in a country with 70% of the world's platinum reserves that we lag so far behind in the commercialisation of hydrogen fuel cell technology," says Telpro director, Bob Glenister. To this end Telpro has started a competition based on the famous X-Prize. This competition seeks to encourage people to explore this alternative form of energy. Depending on the interest, and whether more companies seek to encourage the added value benefaction of our natural resource, this will be the first in a series of competitions all aimed at amassing the necessary knowledge base for us to be leaders in this emerging field.

For more information contact Bob Glenister, Telpro, 011 466 1551, telpro@telpro.co.za

Competition 1.

There is only one prize of R25 000, which will be awarded to the first team of participants that manage to drive a vehicle (no size limitation) around the Telpro building 25 times (a distance of approx 5,25 km) using 100 ml of water converted to its constituent parts of hydrogen and oxygen.

Rules:

1. Hydrogen fuel cells must be the energy source.

2. There is no closing date.

3. Telpro can assist teams with the construction of their fuel cells and any necessary parts.

4. A basic plan from the participant should be submitted to Telpro for evaluation to determine whether the spirit of the competition is being adhered to. No 'clever' interpretation of the rules will be tolerated and the judges' decision will be final if a project is disqualified.

5. In case of budget constraints by the participants, a formal request from the participants for assistance will be considered if submitted together with the plan.

6. A detailed works document, discussing the full development of the project, with all the problems and breakthroughs discovered by the participants will be required to qualify for the prize. This will be published in the relevant press to facilitate others to follow in their footsteps. (Any patentability of discovery will be discussed with the author prior to this release but the primary objective of the competition should be kept in mind.)