Contestants aim to win brand new car in hands-on contest at Washington Auto Show

WASHINGTON - One of the highlights of the annual Washington Auto Show is the hands-on contest where people attempt to win a brand new car.

The competition is definitely a test of endurance and mental stamina as ten contestants must maintain physical contact with the winning prize for 24 hours a day until the end of the contest (don't worry, there are breaks included during the contest). Last year's winner won after enduring 120 hours of the contest.

This year's event kicked off Tuesday at 3 p.m. and will continue until 6 p.m. on Sunday. The winning vehicle these contestants will be vying for is 2018 Hyundai Tucson SEL Plus AWD.

Each of the contestants is allowed one blanket, a change of clothes and one set of toiletries, including a towel, with them during the contest. No electronic devices of any kind is permitted.

"It's willpower," said Russell, one of the contestants in this year's contest. "It's mental and then a little physical as well."

The only woman to participate this year said she is hoping to win the car so she can take her two kids on a vacation to New York. She also told FOX 5's Gary McGrady, "I just want to prove that women are better than men at this point."

If more than one person is still touching the vehicle at the end of the contest, a random drawing will be conducted to choose a winner.