Startup vehicle maker Aptera says it has begun formulating its intention to produce bodywork for its three-wheeled solar electric vehicle, although the actual delivery timeline may not be as clear as expected. I thought.
In an accompanying video address updateCEO Steve Fambro noted that Aptera has chosen Italian CPC group for its “incredible ability” to build a carbon fiber bodywork production line in just nine months after reaching its funding target.
Then it said something surprising: It wasn’t there yet.
“Starting production of Launch Edition vehicles requires additional capital and we intend to share details on the delivery timeline as soon as possible,” Fambro explained.
That appears to contradict what the company said earlier in February, when it stated that completing the Accelerator Program, a form of crowdfunding that also guarantees one of 2,000 positions first built for the vehicle, will be enough to “Financing the early stages of production.”
Aptera Launch Edition core specifications
Aptera not shipping in 2024?
Putting those pieces together, Aptera has effectively announced that it will not produce vehicles in 2024, pushing back the start of production again—this time possibly to 2025.
Green Car Reports reached out to Aptera following the update and has yet to receive a response, but we will update this story with more accurate information from Aptera if this update language is misinterpreted.
Aptera announced the deal with Italy’s CPC Group in November 2022, and in January 2023 unveiled its first Launch Edition version of the EV. By October 2023, it reported that with the acquisition of some production equipment, the company was getting closer to production.
Aptera Sol alpha prototype
Upcoming Aptera design changes
The company’s update also notes that some vehicle design changes are coming. “Before starting production, we will continue to improve our vehicle design to ensure efficiency and cost savings,” the company said.
Fambro explains: “We want you to know that changes in our vehicle designs are taken very seriously and are only implemented if they require significantly less capital, including research and development and tools”. our shareholders and enable Aptera to get to market faster. Once updated supply agreements are signed, we will share further information.”
Aptera application – solar charging
Track solar miles via the Aptera app
In last week’s update, Aptera also provided a first look at the owner’s app, which will allow drivers to control cabin air conditioning. It also allows drivers to see solar energy emitted from their vehicle when they are far away from it.
Korean battery partner CTNS has already built prototype battery modules and the first battery production batch is yet to appear. The company also said it will provide more information about battery management soon.
At CPC in Italy, they are assembling chassis and suspension components using assembly jigs. Finally, high-volume robots will support automated assembly.
Aptera crash model 1
Aptera crash model 2
For the first time, it also introduced a crash simulation for the car’s body structure and said it was eager to compare them with the production build.
Aptera has a lot of promises to make. That’s the teasing way to handle it performance can surpass some sports carsas well as enough power from its solar cells, which cover the lightweight body shell, to allow some owners Never worry about charging the battery.
Aptera tests alpha prototype
The Released version revealed in January 2023 with 0-60 mph acceleration in 4.0 seconds, a 42 kwh battery pack that can provide up to 400 miles of range, and a solar power system that can Provides 700 watts of continuous power for 40 miles. range per day, according to the company. Aptera announced the use of the Tesla NACS gateway even before last year’s US market wave EV brand converts charging standards.
