[Airventure, Oskosh] eVenture 2011: $60,000 Electric Flight Prize

EAA has been an inspiration and resource over the past half century for the conception and development of countless aircraft designs and products. This year, AirVenture will feature a new level of innovation that manifests more new ideas and technology than have been seen in one place for decades.

The $60,000 Electric Flight Prize will highlight and showcase an amazing array of new powerplant and airframe designs, awarding cash prizes to the designers and pilots of electric aircraft.
The contest will be judged across four categories:

• Endurance: A timed event to determine which aircraft can stay aloft for the longest time in standard configuration (i.e., without additional battery packs). The clock will start when the aircraft crosses a defined start line, and will end when the pilot taxies across a finish line (locations of start and finish lines will be confirmed at pilot briefing). Competitors will be expected to land with a 10% battery reserve, and anyone unable to taxi across the finish line will be disqualified. All takeoffs will establish aircraft in a racetrack pattern above Wittman Regional Airport at a constant altitude. (Flights are likely to be scheduled in early morning or evening of July 26-28)
• Time to Climb: A timed event to determine how much time it takes to climb to 5,000' AGL. Dynon Avionics will provide measuring devices that can be carried by each aircraft to the appropriate altitude. The clock starts when the aircraft is waved off for takeoff. (Event to be held on Wednesday, July 27)
• Maximum Speed: The event will establish an average speed based two passes (one to the north, one to the south) along runway 18/36 at a minimum altitude of 500' AGL. The passes must be flown at level altitude – diving to create an advantage will result in disqualification. (Event to be held prior to the afternoon air show on Thursday, July 28)
• Innovation Evaluation: The judges - nominated representatives from AeroLEDs, Aircraft Spruce & Specialty, Dynon Avionics, and Wicks Aircraft Supply - will, by consensus, determine a first-, second- and third-place position to recognize the aircraft that, in their opinion, represent the most significant advancement in electric aircraft design, construction, technology and innovation. All aircraft that have completed at least one of the performance events will be eligible.

Application form & more info: http://www.airventure.org/electric/prize.html