After two decades in development, San Diego-based startup Aptera has taken a significant step toward delivering its solar-powered electric vehicle to customers. The company recently completed a 300-mile (approximately 480-kilometer) road trip with its production-intent vehicle, marking the first time the EV has been filmed during such a long-distance test.
Co-CEO Steve Fambro piloted the vehicle from Flagstaff, Arizona, along Route 66 to California’s Imperial Valley. According to Aptera, the journey served as a real-world validation of its systems. “This is a major milestone for us,” the company stated, emphasizing the importance of testing performance under typical driving conditions.
Visually, the Aptera solar EV stands out with a design that many have likened to a vehicle from science fiction. While the exterior closely resembles what the company plans to bring to market, the interior still appears unfinished in the footage, with some exposed components.
On the trip, the car managed to reach solar charging peaks of 520 watts during the sunniest part of the day. The vehicle’s integrated solar array—consisting of 700 watts of panels spread across the roof and hood—can provide up to 40 miles (64 kilometers) of range per day in optimal sunlight without the need for plug-in charging.
For longer journeys, the upcoming Launch Edition will feature a 400-mile (640-kilometer) battery pack that can be recharged via a traditional charger. The company also plans to offer a 1,000-mile (1,610-kilometer) battery configuration for those requiring extended range.
The EV’s efficiency stems from its lightweight carbon fiber composite body and aerodynamic design, which results in an exceptionally low drag coefficient—reportedly lower than that of many land speed record cars. The two-seater is powered by a 150-kW (201-peak-horsepower) electric drivetrain and can reach a top speed of 101 mph (162 km/h).
Aptera had earlier completed a low-speed function test in November. With this longer-range test now behind it, the vehicle appears closer to customer delivery. The company reports having received 48,000 reservations and plans to begin limited production later this year. The Launch Edition is expected to be priced at around $40,000, with full-scale production targeted to reach 20,000 units per year by 2027.
Source: Aptera
