New Aptera
 

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:

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3151/...0d40e16a_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3214/...6ffa0c1e_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3031/...d47f1834_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3165/...932ce643_o.jpg

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.

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.

Good news.

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

http://www.aptera.com/i/apteraLogo.png

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...

MetroMPG -

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

CarloSW2

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

1
http://www.foozoodesign.com/blog/ima...7/aptera01.jpg

2
http://ecomodder.com/forum/attachmen...1&d=1228244083

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
http://blog.wired.com/cars/images/ap..._back_view.jpg
http://blog.wired.com/photos/uncateg...ont_view_2.jpg

Just to be clear... I'm not bashing :thumbup: 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 :)

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.

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

Ditto

get the cost down without compromising safety

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.

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

http://www.foozoodesign.com/blog/ima...7/aptera01.jpg