Major Shareholder and Strategic Partner Al Yousuf Group Purchases ZAP's Convertible Debt

Major Shareholder and Strategic Partner Al Yousuf Group Purchases ZAP's Convertible Debt

SANTA ROSA, CA., May 19, 2008 - Electric vehicle pioneer ZAP (OTCBB: ZAAP) announced today that Dubai's Al Yousuf Group has completed a transaction to purchase a convertible debt that was part of a private placement registration from October 2007. As part of the transaction, The Al Yousuf Group has purchased the convertible debt for $475,000.

"We are continually grateful for the commitment and support that Mr. Eqbal Al Yousuf has given ZAP," said ZAP CEO Steve Schneider. "The purchase of this convertible debt will help ZAP's business plans."

The United Arab Emirates manufacturing and distribution company purchased $5 million ZAP shares in November. In December, Mr. Eqbal Al Yousuf, President, joined ZAP's Board of Directors.

About ZAP

ZAP has been a leader in advanced transportation technologies since 1994, delivering over 100,000 vehicles to consumers in more than 75 countries. At the forefront of fuel-efficient transportation with new technologies including energy efficient gas systems, hydrogen, electric, fuel cell, ethanol, hybrid and other innovative power systems, ZAP has a joint venture called Detroit Electric to manufacture electric and hybrid vehicles with Youngman Automotive Group, one of China's leading manufacturers of buses and trucks. Detroit Electric is developing a freeway capable electric vehicle called the ZAP Alias in collaboration with Lotus Engineering. ZAP is also developing a new generation of vehicles using advanced nanotech batteries with Advanced Battery Technologies. The Company recently announced a strategic partnership with Dubai-based Al Yousuf Group to expand its international vehicle distribution. ZAP also makes an innovative, new portable energy technology that manages power for mobile electronics from cell phones to laptops. For product, dealer and investor information, visit http://www.zapworld.com.

This press release contains forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned that such forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, including, without limitation, continued acceptance of the Company's products, increased levels of competition for the Company, new products and technological changes, the Company's dependence upon third-party suppliers, intellectual property rights, and other risks detailed from time to time in the Company's periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Contact: Alex Campbell ZAP 707-525-8658 x 241 acampbell@zapworld.com Source: ZAP