ChinaAutoInfo

On January 6th, at CES 2025, Aptera, a startup that faced bankruptcy but has since recovered, launched its new solar-electric vehicle with 'production intent,' supported by the legendary Italian car design company Pininfarina. This is an 'ultra-efficient' trike electric vehicle, partially powered by built-in solar panels.

Although Aptera did not disclose the specific drag coefficient of the new car, it claims that the previous prototype achieved 0.13. It is equipped with 700W integrated solar panels, which can meet the daily driving needs of most car owners without the need for plug-in charging. Car owners can rely on solar power to get up to 40 miles (approximately 64.37 kilometers) of range per day, and the maximum range after a full charge can reach 400 miles (approximately 643.74 kilometers).

Aptera once tried to become one of the first companies in the world to mass-produce solar-powered cars, but the plan did not proceed smoothly due to the failure to obtain advanced technology loans from the U.S. Department of Energy. The company went bankrupt and ceased operations in 2011, and it was not until 2020 that it was able to restart after raising enough funds through crowdfunding and other methods.

However, it is still unclear whether Aptera's efforts will ultimately bring this unique solar-electric trike to the market.