U.S. automotive startup Aptera Motors successfully completed a 300-mile maiden long-distance road trip with its innovative solar electric vehicle (EV), the Aptera.
This journey, the first extended test since 2011, marks a significant milestone in proving the commercial viability of this unique three-wheeled EV.
Arizona to California: An 8-hour Endurance Test
According to CleanTechnica, the Aptera recently completed an 8-hour road trip from Flagstaff, Arizona, to California, reaching 134 km/h (83 mph). Engineers evaluated various onboard sensors and computer systems during this test, focusing on aerodynamics and battery efficiency.
While still in the prototype phase, the tested vehicle reportedly incorporates improvements that bring it closer to production-ready status.
Aptera has been unveiling various prototypes since 2020, and this road trip represents a crucial step toward commercialization.
Revolutionary Design and Solar Charging System
The Aptera stands out with its distinctive three-wheeled configuration and aerodynamic design.
It’s the most aerodynamically efficient road vehicle, with a drag coefficient (Cd) of just 0.13. The body, constructed from carbon fiber composite (CF-SMC), weighs between 816 and 998 kg (1,800 to 2,200 pounds).
The vehicle’s surface has solar panels generating around 700W of power. This enables up to 64 km (40 miles) of solar-powered driving per day in sunny regions. When combined with its electric powertrain, the Aptera can achieve a maximum range of 1,600 km (1,000 miles), depending on battery capacity.
Aptera offers multiple battery options, providing ranges of 400 km (250 miles), 650 km (400 miles), 950 km (590 miles), and 1,600 km (1,000 miles). The Aptera is highly efficient, with an energy consumption of approximately 62.5 Wh/km (100 Wh/mile). Its Never Charge system allows up to 16,000 km (10,000 miles) of solar-powered driving annually.
Performance-wise, the front-wheel-drive model delivers 100 kW (134 horsepower) and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.5 seconds. The all-wheel-drive variant boosts output to 150 kW (201 horsepower), achieving 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.5 seconds. Both models have a top speed of approximately 160 km/h (100 mph).
Aptera is expected to be priced between $25,900 and $46,000. Industry analysts predict that once it enters production, this groundbreaking electric vehicle could significantly disrupt the EV market.
