Ecotality Life

The new Aptera vehicle embodies everything science fiction dreamers thought automobiles would look like in the 21st Century. Minus, of course, the ability to fly. Not only is it crafted in a style that would make The Jetsons proud, but it uses electricity to quietly cruise the streets at speeds up to 90mph. Add in the “WTF is that?!” reaction from drivers and passerbys alike and you’ve got yourself the perfect excuse to fork over the under $30K or so needed for this ride.

Well, in my head at least, that’s the perfect excuse. The more reserved out there may want to wait a bit to see how this first generation of the Aptera does before getting rid of their Sonatas. There are, however, some other really cool facts about this car that might push you over. For instance:

• Aptera founder and CEO Steve Fambro says sticking your hand out the window of an average car driving 55 mph creates more drag than the Aptera’s entire body.
• The Typ-1 e uses a rearview system with three cameras that display images on small dash panels where analog gauges would normally sit. (Traditional rearview mirrors will still probably make it to production as well.)
• The roof top solar panels can charge either you laptop or the vehicle’s AC system when not in use.
  
• The Typ-1 e is expected to have a target range of 120 miles per charge. A ful1 recharge of the pack will take about 4 to 6 hours with a standard 110-volt outlet.

Here’s what Popular Science thought of the vehicle’s ride:

“Turn the dial to the “D” position, and the Aptera accelerates like many other pure EVs, with a constant rush of torque. The powertrain pulls strongly up to 50 mph or so (the fastest the streets on our route would allow). Interestingly, when you floor the accelerator, there’s a moment when the reareand jacks up slightly as the torque is applied. It’s a slight feeling, as it is on some shaft-drive motorcycles—and it’s kind of fun. It makes the acceleration feel stronger than it is.”

Ultimately, however, what really makes this thing worth believing in is to see it in motion. Jump here to check out PopSci’s full review and to catch the video test drive. You can visit Aptera’s official site here.

What do you think? Would you pick one up?

Thanks to Bill Hobbs for the tip!

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