New Aptera

[NeilBlanchard]

Hi,

Aptera has updated their web page with much more detailed images -- I'd say it definitely has driven front wheels!

Aptera

This is the 2e:









They start production this month! The cost will be the mid-$20K to the mid $40K range, depending on model (all-electric, serial hybrid, possibly fuel-only) and the options you choose. Sale to California residents only, for now, but all over the USA at some point fairly soon.

1,500-2,000 pounds (or so); again depending on the model and options. Dual air bags, front crumple zone, passenger safety cell with door beams, etc.

[Daox]

Thats great! Not that I could afford it even if it was sold here, but its nice to know it would be viable vehicle in a snowy area. That was previously my hang up with it.

[MetroMPG]

Good news.

I surfed around their site a bit and was looking at their logo:



What do you see there?

I see a simplified lower case a in the negative (white). It could be a teardrop shape as well. And a vicious green PacMan about to eat it...

[cfg83]

MetroMPG -

Originally Posted by MetroMPG

Good news.

I surfed around their site a bit and was looking at their logo:



What do you see there?

I see a simplified lower case a in the negative (white). It could be a teardrop shape as well. And a vicious green PacMan about to eat it...

Yes, and the green image is a (green) flower too, yes? Just saying the obvious (to me).

CarloSW2

[trebuchet03]

Something about the 2e industrial design is bothering me...

1


2


I think adding that rear window is forcing a longer feel... Which to me gives me thoughts of unbalanced proportions.

If I owned.... the first thing I'd do is streamline that camera winglet!

Notice some compromises... Larger handle inset, camera winglet, exposed rear view mirrors!

Other images show a more exposed rear wheel (back section) in addition to the wheel fairings having a more blunt rear (could just be the image perspective).


Here's an even older varient that made it's appearance at TED



Just to be clear... I'm not bashing I totally respect/understand the compromises necessary for manufacturing, sales, perception etc. It'd be cool to see an evolutionary map - starting with the first prototype (or donkey) and ending with the most recent version

[groar]

When I think about Basjoos' accident, it seams these front wheels are a danger when (drunk...) people are overtaking you. This may be why the 2nd version has lights on them.

Denis.

[cfg83]

NeilBlanchard -

I like the revised design. I like that it's lowered for COG (center of Gravity) and I like the running lights. I also like the side view mirrors. Video-cam side-views could be a pri$ey option or a DIY.

Mid $20K makes it an "acceptable" price for now. Down the line a mid $15K would make it a commuter-winner.

CarloSW2

[metromizer]

Originally Posted by cfg83

NeilBlanchard -
...Down the line at mid $15K would make it a commuter-winner.

Ditto

get the cost down without compromising safety

[almightybmw]

Originally Posted by groar

When I think about Basjoos' accident, it seams these front wheels are a danger when (drunk...) people are overtaking you. This may be why the 2nd version has lights on them.

Denis.

Reminds me of lights placed on trailer fenders. Makes perfect sense.


Wish I lived in CA. I would love to own one of these. Seems like it has great potential. Lets hope it doesn't fall into the tank like Tesla is doing.

[trebuchet03]

Originally Posted by groar

When I think about Basjoos' accident, it seams these front wheels are a danger when (drunk...) people are overtaking you. This may be why the 2nd version has lights on them.

Denis.

I see lights on the Type 1 front wheels... Am I missing something?