And it’s happening right now…
At Aptera, we’re leading a movement to create the most efficient forms of mobility on the planet. This movement, or our Solar Revolution, is rooted in the idea that we must be the future, now. Through continuous innovation, we are working tirelessly to change the status quo of how the world thinks of energy, of mobility, and even what a vehicle can look like.
As we prepare for production, we’re excited to see that an electrified future is now more attainable than ever. On the cusp of several major federal and regional policy announcements, we’re celebrating the catalyzation of EV accessibility.
This good news comes as the Department of Transportation announced its allocation of $5 billion over the next five years to build a national EV infrastructure. This program is designed to deliver charging stations in every state– positioned at key access points and along interstates and highways. The administration is calling these charging stations Alternative Fuel Corridors. This federal update comes on the heels of California Governor Newsom announcing a $10 billion zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) package.
What does this mean? A future of clean energy has never felt so real.
This shift in EV prioritization from our leaders is a clear indication that electric vehicles will be the future. Not only do these announcements amplify the existing federal tax credits, but in many states, like California for example, governors have made the transition to making EV-only sales a priority by 2035.
At Aptera, we’re thrilled about this news. Clean transportation is a movement that is much larger than us, and we are hopeful that this trend toward EV ownership– no matter which EV model– will have a positive impact on the planet.
However, with this positive momentum comes the awareness that there is still much work to be done in bringing this electric future to fruition.
Alternative Fuel Corridors and further infusions of funds are a strong starting point, but we know they won’t solve the multitude of barriers preventing universal EV adoption. Where these measures fall short, Aptera offers decisive solutions, making the solar future a reality, right now.
1. Cost
The cost of who– and who cannot– afford an EV remains a primary issue–which, if left unaddressed– will lead to further technological inequality. Simply put, cost cannot continue to be a barrier preventing the majority of Americans’ access to clean transportation. Without the ability or the choice of EV ownership, too many will be left behind.
This federal build-out will make driving EV’s more appealing–this is true– but likely only to those who can already afford them. The cost of entry into this elite driver’s club remains too steep. The cheapest EVs on the market range from $35,000-40,000, and that’s without any enhanced battery upgrades. For the majority of us, this price remains too unobtainable.
At Aptera, we’re fundamentally shifting this paradigm. Despite offering a more comprehensive driving range, safety, technology, design, and solar integration, Aptera starts at $25,900. With a potential federal tax credit of $7,500, Aptera can make solar-electric vehicle ownership accessible for under $20k. We are not stopping there, however. We are continuously working to make the future of solar mobility even more affordable.
2. Charging Infrastructure Inequality
Along with an expensive bar of entry into owning an EV, the majority of low-to-middle income communities have been passed over when it comes to charging infrastructure. This is especially distressing, as we know that underserved communities are largely the ones who are suffering right now from the effects of the climate crisis. This unequal divide simply cannot continue to expand.
With Aptera’s solar technology, we’re hoping to fill in these charging gaps and help bring the choice of EV ownership to those who currently do not have that option. By parking an Aptera in the sun, it can charge up to 40 miles a day– which is more mileage than most daily commutes. With this in mind, many will be able to drive an Aptera without having to worry about consistent access to a charging station.
We’re also exploring how community fleets of Apterae can provide mobility to those for whom vehicle ownership is not an option.
3. Grid Reliance
Electricity is a cleaner fuel source than the destructive alternative. This is undisputed. Transitioning the world toward creative and restorative energy sources is our mission–and electricity is no doubt part of this in the short-term.
However, electricity is not a perfect solution. We know that electric power still generates waste. Therefore, we simply cannot stop at grid-reliant EVs that create pollution.
At Aptera, we utilize electricity too. However, we’re working to make a future of fully-solar mobility possible. Rather, we should look at EVs as the stepping stone along our transition to the cleanest, the most efficient, and the most responsible forms of mobility.
With the solar driving range of up to 40 miles a day, we’re making it possible to cut down on our electric pollution footprint. Having the ability to be independent from the grid for most daily driving, we’re ushering in this transition.
4. Range Anxiety
For those of us who have driven a traditional fuel vehicle on a long road trip, we’ve likely negotiated between the desire to keep driving and the nagging anxiety of running low on fuel and not being able to reach the nearest gas station. The quick math we do in our heads– comparing our remaining driving range vs the distance to the next fuel station–is certainly not uncommon.
However, for many, this anxiety is further compounded when driving an EV. Superchargers are becoming more accessible, and certainly the future of Alternative Fuel Corridors will make electrified road trips that much simpler. But the fact remains that fueling up at a nearby gas station is far more reliable– and much faster–than charging up.
Range anxiety, and in unlikelihood of finding charging stations along one’s route– or even the ability to charge one’s vehicle at overnight lodging– detracts from the appeal of EVs. Not to mention it takes nearly an hour for most EVs to fully charge at a supercharger.
As we await Alternative Fuel Corridors, Aptera offers a solution to this range anxiety, now.
Aptera was created with one purpose in mind — energy efficiency. Our unique shape allows Aptera to slip through the air using 30% of the energy compared to other electric and hybrid vehicles on the road today.
What does this mean?
At Aptera’s greatest battery configuration, one can travel up to 1,000 miles per charge. Thus Aptera could drive from New York City to Los Angeles and only need to stop to charge a total of 3 times.
The Future is Now
We are all touched by the sun’s rays. And just like the universal nature of the sun, our movement is for everyone– not just someone.
We’re on the Earth, for the Earth, and we want you to join our movement.