Can you imagine a vehicle that can travel 64 kilometers daily without needing to charge? Aptera Motors' latest innovation—the Aptera Solar Electric Car—introduces this groundbreaking lifestyle! No more worries about chargers, outlets, or charging stations, as the car is powered by the sky—yes, by the sun!
The vehicle, known as the PI2, recently completed its first round of low-speed functional testing in San Diego, California. Aptera simplified the car to ensure it could operate at low speeds, removing non-essential parts such as doors, windows, and solar panels. This step highlights the vehicle's potential as a solar-powered electric car.
The Aptera features 3 square meters of solar panels that, under ideal sunlight conditions, can generate 700 watts of electricity per day, enough to travel approximately 64 kilometers. Even on cloudy days or during extended trips, it can still be charged like a traditional electric vehicle. For those requiring long-distance travel, Aptera offers various battery pack options, with the largest capacity enabling the car to travel up to 1,600 kilometers on a full charge—truly impressive!
You might wonder, what about acceleration? Does "green energy" mean "slow"? Absolutely not! The Aptera can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4 seconds and has a top speed of 162 km/h—comparable to sports cars like the Chevrolet Corvette or Audi RS3. Its electric motor delivers a peak power of 150 kW and a torque of 310 Nm, offering impressive acceleration and power performance.
This incredible performance is made possible by its ultra-lightweight design and extremely low drag coefficient. Weighing just 816 kilograms, it’s comparable to a small Smart car. Even with its largest 100 kWh battery, the vehicle’s weight reaches only 998 kilograms, similar to a Mazda Miata. The car boasts a drag coefficient of just 0.13, the lowest among all production cars. For comparison, a typical semi-truck has a drag coefficient of about 0.6, while a parachute reaches 1.4. The Aptera’s aerodynamic design, resembling a dolphin, allows it to glide through the air effortlessly, minimizing drag to unprecedented levels.
The interior of the Aptera is simple and focused on practicality. You won’t find flashy decorations or unnecessary accessories here. The airplane-inspired steering wheel design enhances the feeling of piloting an aircraft, adding a unique touch to the driving experience. These design choices aren’t just for aesthetics—they also contribute to reducing weight and increasing efficiency, ensuring that the solar energy is utilized to its fullest potential.
Perhaps the most striking feature of the Aptera is its "Lambo-style" scissor doors. While they may slightly increase drag when opened, they undeniably add to the car's cool factor. Painted in matte black, the vehicle exudes a "Batman" vibe—though in this case, it’s more like a "Dolphinman" emerging from the sea, blending sleek aesthetics with futuristic design.
Currently, Aptera is accepting pre-orders, with the Launch Edition priced at $30,700 USD. With various upgrades, the highest price can reach up to $51,500 USD. For those eager to experience the future of travel, this is an exciting option. Imagine driving a car powered solely by sunlight, extending your journey without worrying about fuel or charging—who wouldn’t be thrilled by such an idea?
