After two decades of development, the Aptera solar electric vehicle (EV) is proving to be a game-changer in sustainable transportation. Recently, the San Diego-based startup achieved a significant milestone by completing a 300-mile road test along the iconic Route 66. Driven from Flagstaff, Arizona to California’s Imperial Valley, the trip tested the vehicle’s performance in real-world driving conditions and served as a crucial step toward customer delivery. The futuristic design, resembling a vehicle from science fiction, demonstrates its aerodynamic efficiency critical to its unmatched energy performance. With a sleek carbon fiber composite body, the Aptera touts an ultra-low drag coefficient, making it one of the most efficient EVs on the market.
One of the most groundbreaking features of the Aptera EV is its built-in solar array. With 700 watts of solar panels integrated into the roof and hood, the vehicle can generate enough energy to offer up to 40 miles of range per day under optimal sunlight—entirely free of traditional charging methods. On longer trips, the upcoming Launch Edition will include a 400-mile battery pack option, and for those seeking more range, a 1,000-mile battery configuration is in development. The vehicle’s environmental impact and versatility make it a compelling option for individuals looking to embrace renewable energy without sacrificing practicality or reliability. During its test run, the vehicle even recorded solar charging peaks of 520 watts, validating its potential in maximizing solar energy.
While the solar EV's design is nearly ready for production, its interior still needs refinement. Exposed components in the footage from the road test indicate ongoing development efforts. Aptera, however, remains committed to delivering, with more than 48,000 reservations already reported. At an estimated price of $40,000, the two-seater EV comes equipped with a 150 kW drivetrain capable of reaching speeds of 101 mph, embodying both performance and efficiency. With plans to begin limited production by the end of the year and scale to 20,000 annual units by 2027, Aptera is poised to redefine the electric vehicle market, pushing the boundaries of what solar mobility can achieve.
📷: APTERA
