From Autoweek · Mark Vaughn · · 1m 50s
Aptera Finally Rolls Out After 20 Years of Promise
Aptera's solar EV, promised for 20 years, starts deliveries in early 2027 after SEMA show test drive.
In brief
Aptera's solar EV, promised for 20 years, starts deliveries in early 2027 after SEMA show test drive. Aptera's solar electric vehicle begins deliveries in early 2027 after a 20-year wait, with 400-mile range under ideal conditions. Originally reported by Autoweek.
Aptera's 20-Year Promise
Aptera has promised this solar electric vehicle for 20 years before finally getting a ride.
SEMA Show Test Drive
Mark Vaughn rode an Aptera validation vehicle at SEMA in Las Vegas during a 20-year gap since his last test drive.
400-Mile Range Target
Aptera claims 400 miles under ideal conditions with solar panels and efficient aerodynamics.
Solar Power Limitations
Rooftop solar produces 250-325 watts under Las Vegas sun but cannot power continuous driving without additional panels.
Production Timeline
Aptera starts building 40 vehicles in early 2027 with deliveries beginning in early 2027.
Carlsbad Assembly Line
Carlsbad production line has 14 stations and 80,000 square feet for 136 sub-assemblies.
Aerodynamic Design
Aptera has a drag coefficient of 0.13, the lowest of any production car in automotive history.
Safety Standards
Aptera is designed to meet passenger car safety standards but not all DOT crash test requirements.
Tire and Suspension
Aptera uses 195/50R Hankook tires with pushrod shocks for aerodynamic efficiency and suspension improvements.
Solar Validation
TUV independently validated Aptera's solar power output at 4 kilowatt hours per day.
First Production Vehicles
Aptera plans to produce 40 vehicles with 10 assembly technicians validating the first vehicles.
20-Year Test Drive
Mark Vaughn drove an Aptera from San Diego to Las Vegas with one stop in Barstow to charge.
Delivery Timeline
Aptera's first vehicles will be delivered in early 2027 after 20 years of development.
Production Challenges
Aptera faces supply chain challenges to build the first 40 vehicles for customers.
The essence
Aptera's solar electric vehicle begins deliveries in early 2027 after a 20-year wait, with 400-mile range under ideal conditions.
