Aptera Motors Launch 3D Printed Self-Charging Electric Vehicle

Last week, Californian company, Aptera Motors opened preorders for their new never-charge solar electric vehicle (sEV), Aptera. Aptera is the most energy efficient vehicle currently available on the market, combining metal additive manufacturing, solar and electric power, and aerodynamic design. Equipped with three wheels and made of carbon fiber, kevlar and hemp, this compact car should be produced and delivered by 2021, a flexibility made possible thanks to additive manufacturing. Using 3D printing, Aptera Motors has developed a rapid, high-volume, and cost-efficient method of vehicle design and production. Comprised of just four main pieces, the vehicle is 4.4 metres long, 2.2 metres wide, and 1.4 metres high, accommodating two adults and a pet. The new sEV uses in-wheel and liquid-cooled electric motors, permitting the vehicle to accelerate from 0-60 in just 3.5 seconds and reach up to 110 mph. Its vectorised torque control and all-wheel drive assures comfort, stability control, and resilience against inclement weather. Drivers can also stay updated in real time with ways to conserve energy and extend range using the adjustable settings built into Aptera’s user interface.

Founded in 2005, Aptera Motors is built on the idea that super-efficient, safe, fun-to-drive vehicles are at the heart of managing the Earth’s natural resources for the sake of future generations. Until now, the company had released just one prototype vehicle, able to run 100 miles on a single charge. This prototype was met with limited success, forcing the Aptera Motors to closed its doors in 2011. After a successful crowd funding campaign the company returned with a new vehicle boasting ten times the range of the first prototype.

The vehicle charges using solar power (photo credit : Aptera Motors)

There are three models available: the Paradigm (with a 400-mile range); the Paradigm+ (with a 1000-mile range); and the custom Aptera. Both the Paradigm and Paradigm+ have already sold out. The custom Aptera has options to personalise the vehicles’ range, interior and exterior colour, and solar power location.