ZAP, pioneering the next generation of advanced transportation and energy technologies, announced today that actor and Smart Car fan Rutger Hauer has signed the car being auctioned by ZAP on eBay, the first U.S.-compliant Smart Car available to the general public, with proceeds going to charities involved in clean air and advanced transportation.

Mr. Hauer, currently appearing in the feature film "Batman Begins" and recently in "Sin City," yesterday signed the Smart Car's "Passion Model Plate" during a meeting with ZAP CEO Steve Schneider in Los Angeles. The car being auctioned by ZAP now becomes a "Rutger Hauer Signature Smart Car." Purchase of the car includes Mr. Hauer's personal signature. To bid on the Smart Car Americanized via ZAP, visit http://www.eBay.com and use the keyword 'Smart Car' or the eBay Item Number 4556842599.

A veteran actor, Hauer has starred in such films as "Blade Runner," "The Hitcher," "Ladyhawke" and "Blind Fury." A native of Holland, Mr. Hauer uses a Smart Car in conjunction with his motor home when he is out on the road during productions. He provided photos of his car and the 18-wheel motor home he spent three years building and customizing. View the photos on ZAP's News Site at www.zapworld.com.

ZAP is organizing U.S. marketing and distribution for the Smart Car, a highly fuel-efficient vehicle that has created worldwide interest since its European release in 1998. The Smart Car ForTwo Coupe is popular among drivers in Europe, Canada and other countries. But with U.S. gas prices at record highs and American drivers increasingly demanding greater fuel efficiency and advanced energy transportation solutions, ZAP CEO Steve Schneider is confident that the popularity of this internal-combustion microcoupe will continue to grow in the domestic market. At the same time, dealers across the country are also expressing enthusiasm about the chance to sell these cars.

ZAP is now establishing a distribution portal and hub of automotive dealerships in the United States that cater to car-buyers looking for the next generation in automotive fuel technologies, including zero-emission electric vehicles, hydrogen fuel cell technology, and other energy-efficient, low-emission and advanced technologies. The Smart Car is one of several vehicles that ZAP is planning to offer through this distribution network.

For more information, visit http://www.zapworld.com.