Aptera 2e Video
In Brief
With pre sales in excess of 4,000 the Aptera 2e is due for production at the end of 2010. The 3 wheel design has been chosen for efficiency reasons and the aerodynamic shape of the Aptera has resulted in a 1.5 drag co-efficient.
The Aptera is made from composite body structures which are lighter but stronger than steel. Safety features include front crash zones that incorporate race car technology to absorb and deflects energy from the passenger cabin. It also includes air bags and reinforced side transfer beams to deflect crash loads away from the cabin.
Solar panels on the roof are used for climate control and keep the inside cool even when parked. With a range of 100 miles and a charge time of 2.5 hours the Aptera is one of the most efficient of the current new electric vehicle designs. The US Government has recently relented and the Aptera does now qualify for Department of Energy grants for fuel efficient vehicles (follow up to comments in the above video).
The Aptera is a two seater with substantial cargo room. It is internet ready with a front panel display to keep occupants connected to the net. The seats are made from recycled materials and natural dyes are used for colouring. Perhaps not for everyone but certainly a head turner and very different to the more traditional designs. Click here for the Aptera website