The Independent noted:


"One popular finisher was a converted Ford Escape with a hybrid
petrol-electric engine. It had been built by students from the New
Orleans suburb of Metairie, who qualified for the race despite the
upheavals of Hurricane Katrina, which destroyed many of their homes.
Their vehicle came in fourth"

http://news.independent.co.uk/world/americas/article318320.ece

/dps