Aptera Motors, the California-based solar electric vehicle (SEV) startup, has conducted real-world testing of its first production-intent validation vehicle, marking a significant milestone in its journey toward mass production.
The company shared footage of the SEV undergoing efficiency testing at a proving ground in the Mojave Desert, demonstrating its aerodynamic performance and energy consumption.
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The validation vehicle underwent a series of assessments, including coastdown testing to measure aerodynamic, rolling, and powertrain losses. Aptera reported that the SEV took three minutes to decelerate from 60 mph to a complete stop, even on an uphill slope—suggesting that its coastdown distance is longer than any other vehicle on the market, whether electric or gasoline-powered.
“Our validation testing confirms that we’re on track to achieve our target energy consumption of roughly 100 Wh/mile—unlocking a level of efficiency that makes solar mobility possible in a way never seen before,” said Aptera co-founder and co-CEO Steve Fambro. “What started as Matlab calculations is now coming to life on the road. This is the future of transportation.”
Additional tests included aerodynamic tuft testing to validate airflow dynamics and an extended highway drive cycle, during which the vehicle’s real-world energy consumption closely matched Aptera’s computer simulations. According to the company, the data was “within a few percent points of its mathematically simulated predictions,” reinforcing the SEV’s efficiency.
Aptera is now developing its second production-intent validation vehicle, which will feature refined aerodynamics, optimized weight distribution, and enhanced components. The next phase of testing will include a full range assessment from 100% to 0% battery capacity, as well as an evaluation of real-world solar charging capabilities.