Aptera, the California-based startup known for its futuristic three-wheeled solar car, has just announced access to $75 million in funding — enough to make even the skeptics believe this thing might actually hit the road.
After years of promises, delays, and crowdfunding drama, it looks like the sun-powered dream could finally turn into reality.
Introduction
For years, Aptera has been one of those mythical EV startups — promising a car that could literally run on sunshine. A car so efficient it barely needed charging, and so weirdly beautiful it looked like it escaped from Star Wars.
Now, after a rocky financial journey, Aptera says it’s ready to begin production readiness, investing that $75 million into equipment and manufacturing setup. It’s bold, ambitious, and maybe — just maybe — the start of something real.
Design and Dimensions
The Aptera looks like nothing else on the road. It’s a sleek, aerodynamic teardrop sitting on three wheels — two at the front, one at the back — shaped entirely by the laws of physics.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Length | 172 inches |
| Width | 88 inches |
| Height | 57 inches |
| Weight | 1,800–2,200 lbs |
| Drag Coefficient | 0.13 (claimed) |
That ultra-low drag allows Aptera to slice through the air like a bobsled, making it one of the most efficient vehicles ever designed.
Performance and Range
The Aptera isn’t just efficient — it’s quick.
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All-Wheel-Drive version: 0–60 mph in under 4 seconds
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Front-Wheel-Drive version: 0–60 mph in under 6 seconds
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Top speed: 110 mph
This is a serious performer — a lightweight rocket that happens to sip electrons like a hummingbird.
Solar Charging: The Main Event
What truly sets Aptera apart are the integrated solar panels covering its roof, hood, and rear hatch.
They can add up to 40 miles of range per day — completely free, powered by the sun.
For many drivers, that means you could commute daily without ever plugging in.
Of course, you can still charge it the normal way. Battery options include:
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25 kWh (250-mile range)
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40 kWh (400-mile range)
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60 kWh (600-mile range)
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100 kWh (up to 1,000 miles per charge)
That’s right — 1,000 miles on a single charge. You could drive from New York to Chicago and still have power left for a coffee run.
Interior and Features
Inside, the Aptera offers a minimalist cabin for two adults (and one pet, if you’re lucky).
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25 cubic feet of cargo space
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Large central touchscreen
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Digital driver display
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Optional Autonomy via the OpenPilot system
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Off-road package for the adventurous few
It’s simple, futuristic, and surprisingly practical for such an alien-looking vehicle.
Funding and Going Public
Here’s where things get spicy.
Aptera’s $75 million isn’t coming from a traditional IPO. Instead, it’s a direct listing — allowing existing investors, many of whom supported the company through crowdfunding, to sell their shares.
While that doesn’t directly add more cash to Aptera’s bank account, it does mean liquidity and market visibility.
Still, the lack of a lockup period (meaning insiders can sell shares immediately) has raised eyebrows.
In other words, great news for now, but cautious optimism remains the theme.
Price and Availability
Aptera plans to start limited production soon after scaling manufacturing.
Pricing depends on battery size:
| Model | Range | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|
| Base | 250 miles | $28,000 |
| Launch Edition | 400 miles | $40,000 |
| Max | 1,000 miles | $61,700 |
That’s a hefty price tag for a two-seater — but you’re paying for the world’s first truly solar-powered EV.
Conclusion
The Aptera Solar EV might just be the most exciting (and strangest) electric car story of the decade.
It’s light, fast, efficient, and possibly self-charging.
But will it actually happen this time? With $75 million in new funding, production tools on the way, and a fanbase that refuses to give up, the odds have never looked brighter.
Literally.
FAQ
When will the Aptera Solar EV go into production?
Aptera plans to begin production soon after finalizing tooling and assembly, following its $75M funding round.
How much will the Aptera cost?
Pricing starts at $28,000 for the base 250-mile model and goes up to $61,700 for the 1,000-mile version.
Does the Aptera really run on solar power?
Yes. Its integrated solar panels can add up to 40 miles of range per day from sunlight alone.
What is the Aptera’s maximum range?
Up to 1,000 miles per charge, depending on the battery configuration.