Aptera, a US-based company, has achieved a significant milestone by successfully completing the first real-world performance test of its solar electric vehicle (sEV). Conducted at a top proving ground in the Mojave Desert, this validation testing marks a critical step toward bringing its innovative vehicle to market. The company aims for a remarkable energy consumption target of approximately 100 Wh/mile, which would revolutionize solar-powered transportation.
The Aptera Launch Edition boasts an impressive range of up to 400 miles (643 kilometers) on a single charge, complemented by integrated solar panels that can provide up to 40 miles of free driving each day. During the testing phase, the vehicle demonstrated exceptional aerodynamics by taking more than three minutes to fully decelerate from 60 mph (96 km/h) to a stop, even when moving uphill. This performance indicates that the Aptera may be one of the most aerodynamically efficient production vehicles ever created.
To validate its aerodynamic design, Aptera conducted tuft testing, which involved attaching small fabric tufts in strategic locations to visualize airflow. This hands-on approach confirmed that real-world results matched previously conducted computer simulations. The insights derived from this testing will optimize the vehicle’s design for even greater efficiency.
In an extended highway drive test, Aptera monitored energy consumption closely over hundreds of miles, further reinforcing the accuracy of its aerodynamic and drivetrain predictions. Steve Fambro, Aptera’s co-founder and co-CEO, expressed enthusiasm over the results, emphasizing that the testing validates the company’s commitment to achieving transformative energy consumption levels in solar mobility.
Looking ahead, Aptera is refining its next validation vehicle with enhancements in aerodynamics, fit, and weight optimization. These improvements are crucial as the company approaches full-scale production, with significant international interest reflected in nearly 50,000 pre-orders and a remarkable $1.7 billion raised in pre-order funding.
Under optimal sunlight conditions, the solar panels on the Aptera can generate enough energy for daily drives of up to 24 miles (40 kilometers) without reliance on charging stations. The vehicle can also achieve a full charge in less than an hour, underscoring Aptera’s vision of practical, efficient solar-powered transportation.
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https://interestingengineering.com/transportation/aptera-validates-solar-ev-tests
https://theevreport.com/aptera-milestone-first-production-vehicle-testing
https://www.compositesworld.com/news/aptera-completes-function-test-for-first-production-intent-sev
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