Aptera, a manufacturer of electric vehicles, has unveiled the Launch Edition of its three-wheeled electric vehicle. The launch, which represents the first series of over 40,000 pre-orders the company has accumulated, features in-house developed 700-watt solar technology.
The vehicle’s photovoltaic cells, which are located all over the car, will yield up to 40 miles of daily range. This means that it may be possible to never charge the vehicle from the grid, a significant advancement in transportation electrification. The car’s driving range is 1000 miles, though the company may release a version that can travel 1,000 miles on a single charge.
This is Aptera's Launch Edition. Discover the specifications here → https://t.co/vZJeHfJ4I9 pic.twitter.com/erYXcfk6an
— Aptera (@aptera_motors) January 20, 2023
The vehicle’s battery can also add over 13 miles per hour when plugged into a 120V outlet, and owners can wake up to 150 miles of range if plugged in overnight. Aptera has confirmed that it will adopt Tesla’s North American charging standard. The car’s energy efficiency is credited for its relatively long range; its shape, weight, and materials help optimize performance and reduce energy consumption.
The EV will be manufactured in collaboration with CPC Group. While production will begin in Carlsbad, California, Aptera aims to operate eight assembly plants worldwide by 2028. The company is targeting a starting price of $25,000. The development is in its fourth and final phase, which involves crash testing and validation. Aptera plans to commence manufacturing this year and quickly scale up to producing 10,000 units per year and then 20,000.
However, one of the company’s CEOs, Chris Anthony, noted that the delivery timeline is dependent on funding. He added, “Our Launch Edition is our chance to show the world something that’s never existed before. Our identity at Aptera is about transformation, reinvention, and surprises. The Launch Edition is our chance to lead a movement that’s for everyone. We are solar mobility, and we are the future.”
