Summary
- Real-world validation testing of solar-assisted 3-wheeled electric vehicle completed by Aptera
- Aptera switched to inboard motor setup instead of in-wheel motors for its future solar EV
- Per-mile energy consumption remains consistent with previous expectations
- Aptera completed production-intent vehicle with inboard powertrain for validation testing
- Next steps include range and charging tests once more production-spec parts are available
Article
Aptera recently completed real-world validation testing on its solar-assisted 3-wheeled electric vehicle, focusing primarily on aerodynamics at a proving ground in the Mojave Desert. The company had initially conducted testing with in-wheel motors but switched to conventional inboard motors for the latest round of tests. Aptera co-founder and co-CEO Steve Fambro expressed positive results with the new inboard powertrain, stating that energy consumption per mile remains in line with expectations.
The first production-intent vehicle with the new inboard powertrain was completed in October, with coast-down tests showing high aerodynamic efficiency as the vehicle took three minutes to coast from 60 mph to a complete stop. Additional tests included aerodynamic tuft testing and a highway drive cycle to measure energy consumption over hundreds of miles. Aptera plans to conduct range and charging tests once more production-spec parts are available and panel fit is further dialed in.
The decision to switch from in-wheel motors to inboard motors was reportedly cost-related, despite the initial innovation and image associated with the technology. Dropping in-wheel motors meant losing the ability to achieve 30% more regenerative braking, but the company remains focused on efficiency and performance targets with the new powertrain setup. Aptera aims to produce vehicles on a larger scale, with aspirations to build a million vehicles by 2033, although financial constraints may limit its ability to produce more prototypes.
Aptera’s validation testing has reaffirmed its commitment to efficiency and performance in its solar-assisted electric vehicle. The company is pleased with the initial results from the inboard powertrain setup, which align with its expectations for energy consumption per mile. By completing various tests, including coast-down tests and aerodynamic tuft testing, Aptera is fine-tuning the vehicle’s design to optimize aerodynamic efficiency. Further range and charging tests will be conducted once production-spec parts are available.
Despite challenges such as financial constraints and the need to discontinue in-wheel motors, Aptera remains determined to establish itself as more than a niche firm in the electric vehicle market. The company’s ambitious goal of producing a million vehicles by 2033 demonstrates its commitment to growth and expansion. While the switch to inboard motors may have come as a surprise, Aptera continues to focus on achieving high levels of efficiency and performance in its solar EV offering.
Overall, Aptera’s completion of real-world validation testing marks a significant milestone in the development of its solar-assisted electric vehicle. The company’s decision to switch to conventional inboard motors has produced positive results in terms of energy consumption and performance. With further testing scheduled, Aptera is on track to optimize its vehicle design and efficiency, as it works towards larger-scale production and expansion in the electric vehicle market.
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