Aptera 2e Electric Car
The Aptera 2 Series will be a two-seat, three-wheeled passenger vehicle. It
is planned to be available in both all-electric (2e) and series hybrid (2h)
configurations, at prices ranging from mid-twenty to mid-forty thousand
dollars.[14] By mid-2008, aerodynamic optimization using simulations and
light-weight composite construction yielded a prototype which allegedly
consumed only 80 Wh/mi at 55 mph, less than half the energy needed to propel
the EV1 or the Tesla.The April 14, 2010 press release revised the design
intent vehicle efficiency estimate to about 200 Wh/mi, 100-mile range from a
full 20 kWh battery pack, or around 200 mpg equivalent. On the hybrid
vehicle, it leads to projections of 130 mpg on gasoline alone, or 300 mpg if
plugged in every 120 miles. Since then, the vehicle underwent a series of
redesigns, including the addition of side mirrors and expansion of the
interior space, however, retaining its three-wheel configuration and its
trademark teardrop shape. As of February 2010, Aptera 2e's fuel efficiency
has not been independently tested; any estimates remain speculative and
subject to change.
Aptera Motors emphasizes that safety was not traded off for efficiency,
citing crash test simulations and more recently component crush
testing[citation needed] as indicating excellent survivability–on par with
more conventional vehicles. Real-world crash test results are forthcoming,
however.
The Aptera 2 Series features optional roof-mounted solar panels for running
a heat pump, always-on climate control, and keyless ignition and entry. An
in-car touch screen computer serves as entertainment, navigation, and
communication system. Side mirrors recently have replaced rear-view cameras,
though one center-mounted camera remains.