
Aptera, a California-based startup, has been working on a hyper-efficient solar electric vehicle for what feels like an eternity. Founded in 2005, the company has undergone several transformations, but its latest incarnation has been making waves in the EV industry. After years of development, Aptera's solar car is finally ready for journalist drives, and we got a chance to check it out in San Diego.
Unlike other solar-powered vehicles, which often feature solar cells as a gimmick, Aptera has taken a different approach. The company has designed a car that is optimized for solar power, with a super aerodynamic shape that looks like a cross between a traditional car and a solar-powered racer. This approach has allowed Aptera to create a vehicle that can harness the power of the sun to extend its range. For Canadian buyers, this could be a major advantage, especially in provinces with ample sunlight. With the Canadian government's iZEV incentives and provincial rebates, such as those offered in British Columbia and Quebec, the Aptera could be an attractive option for eco-conscious buyers.
The Aptera features a range of innovative design elements, including a tapered rear end, three wheels, and covered front wheel pods. These features help to reduce aerodynamic disturbance and make the car more efficient. The Aptera also has a unique suspension design and a range of other engineering innovations that make it stand out from other EVs. While the Canadian pricing for the Aptera has not been announced, it's expected to be competitive with other EVs in the market, and with the iZEV incentive, it could be priced around $40,000 to $50,000. Additionally, Canadian buyers may be eligible for provincial rebates, such as the BC SCRAP-IT program, which offers up to $3,000 in rebates for EV purchases.
We had the chance to drive the Aptera's latest prototype, which is still a work in progress. The car is driveable, but some features, such as regenerative braking and speakers, are not yet enabled. Despite these limitations, the Aptera was a joy to drive, with a unique seating position and a range of innovative features. The car's cockpit is relatively small, but it has plenty of shoulder room and a unique yoke-style steering wheel. The trunk is extremely long, making it perfect for storing long objects or even camping gear. The Aptera is expected to be available in Canada in the near future, with deliveries expected to start in late 2024 or early 2025.
While the Aptera is still a prototype, it shows a lot of promise. The company's focus on efficiency and innovation has resulted in a car that is truly unique. With its solar-powered design and range of innovative features, the Aptera could be a game-changer in the EV industry. As the Canadian government continues to incentivize the adoption of EVs, the Aptera could be an attractive option for buyers looking for a car that's both eco-friendly and efficient. The Aptera's estimated range of up to 700 kilometre on a single charge makes it an ideal vehicle for Canadian drivers, who often have to travel long distances. With its advanced technology and innovative design, the Aptera is poised to make a significant impact in the Canadian EV market.