Ever since the 19th century, when Charles Fritts invented the solar panel, humanity dreamed of cars that would move only using the sun’s energy. Although big improvements in solar panel technology have been made, it seems like we are decades away from cars that won’t need to be charged or refueled, because solar panels are simply not efficient enough. But Aptera Motors, the San Diego, CA-based startup that made a splash with its futuristic three-wheeler EV, says its new PI2 model solves those challenges.
The PI2 (Production Intent) vehicle is still in the early stages of development. Still, the early signs are promising, as Aptera says that the vehicle will be able to move up to 40 miles daily using only solar power. The company hasn’t shared whether this is the maximum possible figure, and how much of a range hit an overcast day will have on the PI2. Still, the thought of having a car that can achieve most daily driving tasks for free is certainly enticing. The PI2 is fully covered with solar panels, which provide up to 700 watts of charging in ideal conditions.
When necessary, though, the solar car can be charged just like any EV, and provide an astonishing range of up to 1,000 miles (1,600 km) with the largest 100-kW battery. No other EV can match these numbers, and it’s all thanks to the slippery aerodynamic shape of the three-wheeler. Thanks to its slim, organically-styled body that tapers in the rear and thin tires, the Aptera has an outstanding drag coefficient of 0.13! For comparison, a Tesla Model S has a drag coefficient of 0.208.
However, the Aptera offers other advantages, like a low weight of only 1,800 pounds (816 kg) for the entry-level 25-kW variant. The company achieved that by making the car’s body from carbon fiber, sourced from Modena, Italy. Apart from extending the range, the lower weight also benefits performance; with only one 201-hp electric motor, the Aptera reaches 60 mph in four seconds flat, equal to some established performance cars. To think that you can have that much acceleration in a solar-powered car is pretty amazing.
Aptera’s biggest advantage over its rivals is accessibility. Although the three-wheeler hasn’t reached the market, yet, interested parties can reserve an entry-level Launch Edition model for $30,700, with the fully-equipped version costing $51,500.
