Aptera Solar Car, Different Shape and Endless Power

Aptera, a start-up specialized in solar car, has rolled out a prototype in 2020 and shipped in 2021. This product, a Aptera Solar car, has 40 miles (about 64 kilometers) of free solar cruising range per day, 1,000 miles on a single charge, and takes 3.5 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph. Due to its high cost, known as $8.2 million paid, and strange looking, especially its three-wheel design, has always criticized by fans and investors. Even though, Aptera acclaims that the expected income will reach $6.5 million, with a profit rate hitting 31%.


From ShoelessCai's point of view, the limitaiton of solar vehicles lies in charging and speed, which have, however, become Aptera's selling point. Its offers a solution to reduce air resistance and lighten materials.

First of all, the drag coefficient of Aptera solar car is only 0.13, comparing to 0.23, the same parameter of Tesla Model3. The explanation given by Techsoho says that, it is because Aptera’s front area is much smaller than others.


Secondly, in terms of materials, Aptera chooses glass fiber, carbon fiber and other compatible materials for the construction of ground and body, which is much lighter than other electric vehicles.

Considering Model S 2021, it is equipped with 100 Kwh battery package, travelling 396 miles for one charge. Model S accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 3.2 seconds, and only costs $90,000. Aptera also has 100 Kwh battery pack and can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds. However, the price of Aptera solar car is $46,000 and starts from $29,500.


According to a user experience from south England, Aptera solar car can never be charged in areas with insufficient sunlight. His commuting distance is 10 miles, using Aptera as a shuffle transportation.

ShoelessCai comments. First, as a travel tool, speed must be the primary requirement. Aptera has only one rear wheel, which is worrying. Second, Aptera seems to be very affordable at first glance, but its speed is more like a subprime car, which would compares it with another competitor. Based on the reasons above, it is not surprising to position Aptera solar car in the middle of market gap between car and motorcycle and to be blamed by investors.