All-Electric or Plug-in Hybrid

The Aptera is a high-efficiency vehicle currently in development by Aptera Motors, Inc, formerly Accelerated Composites, now accepting pre-orders. The claimed fuel efficiency of 230 mpg at 55 mph (1.02 l/100 km) would make it one of the most fuel-efficient cars in the world. Automotive aerodynamics is a major contributing factor, with Aptera Motors claiming a drag coefficient of approximately 0.11. Design elements such as recessed windshield wipers and rear-view cameras instead of mirrors contribute to the low aerodynamic drag.

Because the Typ-1 has only three wheels (two in front and a single drive wheel in the rear), most states in the United States would classify the vehicle as a motorcycle. This configuration also means that the Aptera will not face the same battery of tests for safety and emissions as would be required were the vehicle introduced under the requirements for an automobile.




Aptera plans to use composites in its construction, bringing the estimated weight to 850 pounds (386 kg). Accelerated Composites' Panelized Automated Composite Construction (PAC2) process is a proprietary method that fully automates the manufacture of the composites, making the target price of $20,000 feasible. To reduce the ecological footprint of construction, recycled materials will be used for the seats and flooring, and the dashboard and the door panels will be free of heavy metals and plasticizers.



According to the pre-order page, Aptera Motors has set the price at $26,900 for a an electric version with a 120-mile range, and $29,900 for the diesel-electrical series hybrid. This places the car above the initial target price. The manufacturer of the batteries or motor for either model has not been revealed. In the hybrid model, Aptera Motors plans for a 12 horsepower (9 kW) CARB certified diesel engine, with a 25 horsepower (19 kW) permanent magnet DC motor coupled to the rear wheel through a low resistance belt drive. The Aptera will be able to operate in electric-only mode, shutting down its engine to conserve fuel. Nickel-zinc batteries will be used to store energy from regenerative braking. Aptera Motors claims acceleration from 0–60 mph (0-97 km/h) in less than 10 seconds with an electronically limited top speed of 95 mph (153 km/h). The hybrid is said to have a range of 600-700 miles (965-1125 km), compared to 120 mile (193 km) all-electric range.



The release model, announced in September of 2007, will use LED running and interior lights to reduce energy consumption. A solar panel mounted on the roof of the vehicle keeps the interior at a comfortable temperature at all times. Radio, CD/DVD player, and GPS navigation are integrated into an in-console touch screen, but the climate controls are physical knobs. It will also feature RFID-based keyless ignition (and possibly entry), heated and cooled seats, and gull-wing doors. Despite being classified as a motorcycle in many states, the Aptera will incorporate safety features normally found in cars. The production prototype uses a Formula-1 inspired passenger safety cell and boxed sandwich foam core composite structures. Frontal crumple distance is 45 inches (115 cm), large for a vehicle of its size. Driver and passenger airbag-in-seatbelts are also provided. The company responsible for the design, Aptera Motors, has submitted a Letter of Intent for the Automotive X Prize. It is unknown if this entry will involve the typ-1 concept.