Thanks Nikki for making Steve finally speak about the real reason for the switch of the motors: risk and money regarding integration, especially with the inverters.
This was the first I have heard specifically about the inverters. This is a good reason to delay all-wheel drive. Before it was very vague and that made me uncomfortable.
@@TheScottShepardyes there was a lot of speculation. But the integration / inverter topic is in line with what I personally was told in Ljubljana. See our interview @apterasolar
@@TheScottShepard Yes, previous explanation was vague. If the inverters are the real reason not to currently have an AWD or in wheel motor option why didn't they just say so? Something doesn't smell right.
Thanks for posting this informative interview! Steve’s comments regarding the switch from in-wheel motors to a central motor provided more insight into the reasons for it. There are many people who are eagerly waiting for their Aptera - truly transport evolved!
This is why I like Transport Evolved. Aptera's switch to the off-the-shelf motor has been extensively covered, but only Nikki so far has drilled down on why. Before now, all we had was speculation. Now we know the reasoning, and have a statement of intent to return to hub motors in the future, which is something I would wait for.
I see Aptera as a logical transition in personal ground transport. I have for 40 years, dreamed that this paradigm would evolve. I ordered two in 2020. If I lived close, I would ask them to let me watch the daily progress.
You know .. I think you are representing the core believers .. I am pretty much like you .. actually we should all meet somewhere in nature.. not talking about a car but enjoying nature and knowing we have this mutual understanding ... I would love to see our family !!!
Thanks Nikki! Always good to hear from Steve, where we know we'll get the bottom line. Officially #142 now, looking forward to driving ours home to Oregon by next fall... 🤞. Your neighbor in the northwest.
Such a great interview!!! I've been watching a LOT of Aptera videos for the past month(s) and it just fuels my excitement each time, to see this wonderful feat of engineering taking over our roads.
Since no one yet produces the battery cells they've designed in for their 600 mile version, I expect you'll have a long wait. I originally ordered the same 600 mile version, but I realized 400 mile EPA range is is more than I'll need per day for all my future driving.
You may want to just get the 400 mile version, and invest in flexible portable solar panels to top up the charge directly if available, or to power a solar generator that can then charge the vehicle. You may also find a 400-mile range to be sufficient, many people overestimate their needs.
@@jdavidadams7796 yes, but you will be stopping on long trips for food, drinks and washrooms, and if charging stations are available, the vehicle will charge very quickly. It will be able to use the Tesla charging network which is well established in many regions.
@@jdavidadams7796 There are charging stations for that. A 400 mile range battery is way more than double what most people need as it is. Stoping to charge every 350 miles or so is a smart thing as it reduces dangerous driver fatigue, and the chance of blood clots.. unless you are really in a hurry and then you should consider flying : )
I still have 1 ICE vehicle. I have 120W of traditional solar panels on the roof to replace the alternator for my short commute, and to handle road trip electricity needs. I would love to have the whole car covered with Aptera solar panels, even if it's not an electric car.
@@hoffinger I do. The alternator is still there. I have the panels set to charge the battery above the alternator voltage. On short trips the battery doesn't drop below the alternator voltage and the panels can recharge the battery before I drive again. I couldn't figure out how to modify the alternator charge voltage to do this with lead acid, but the batteries are safe because I'm using a 6s LTO battery.
love that the Aptera has a Cd of 0.13, which is so important in efficiently utilizing power, and consequently requiring smaller batteries. The design is great, but I am curious how this body type will fair in areas with heavy snow conditions. I hope Aptera has aero designa which offer enough ground clearance, yet, maintain that killer low Cd.
The early loss of legal control resulting from the inclusion of legacy Detroit executives was infuriating for me to witness. Now, I see it will result in a much better vehicle, due to new tech.
Great interview!! Quietly observing and not easily ruffled its feathers, by going back to their core WHY he created a almost soul comforting truth instead of spin or hysteric response to the media frenzy. Aptera can be thankful for their two leaders who steer the company towards production. It takes balls, and a lot of zen to make this into reality and clearly they have mastered it to perfection! Well done Aptera!
Great interview. Both great questions and answers. Was interesting to hear of risk involved with inverters causing switch of drivetrain, and as many as 50 PIs being built for numerous testing and some of them being sold off by Q2 at latest while other products such as solar panelled airport vehicles and school buses are sold or being developed for sale as another line of business that is closely aligned with the main line of business.
Oh yeah there ya go. This was a great interview. Love to Steve. Going gangbusters. That last few comments is very believable. I’d have trouble breaking away too. What a fun time in Aptera’s life.❤
Nice to hear Aptera has already developed their own main computer. That's big. Great to hear from the top brass that they're still committed to AWD and in-wheel motors. Great to hear Steve say that their enclosed autocycle constitutes a new vehicle segment. It felt to me like they would need to find a regulatory niche. Let's hope they have everything they need to get production rolling in 2025!
I just hope they make it. They are the only ones differentiated from all the other EV makers including Tesla and the Chinese. Speed is of essence as the world is catching on to what they’re doing. Nikki, you did a great job as usual.
This interview gives me a lot of trust in this company making choices .. I know that's hard choices .. but aptera always has been good in saving money ... I still hope to own one in holland .. it will be the first new car In my life .. but I waited long enough for such a splendid design !!!
Indeed, Aptera has made significant progress. Given the experiences with Solo tri-wheel EVs, it would be intriguing to observe the business case and product strategies developed for the Aptera vehicles/platform. The vehicle boasts features such as a carbon fiber body, substantial footprint (akin to a two-seater plus two additional tires, and an extended wheelbase), front-wheel drive, and rooftop solar panels. This raises questions about the intended customer demographic, cost and profit margins, management of vehicle dynamics (including center of gravity and braking), and the degree of regulatory compliance. As more specifications and designs become available, insights into the product's competitiveness and performance are anticipated.
I think there are several factors that are currently slowing EV adoption but here are the two I think are most relevant: 🔹Most vehicle manufacturers have chosen to focus on big SUVs mostly because they are already heavy so the batteries make less of a difference but most of them are also aiming for the high end luxury market which is already pretty saturated. The mass market is for cheaper vehicles and those aren't really good enough yet - but Aptera could be a very good fit. 🔹Many people still don't have easy access to charging where they park their car and that is slowing adoption.
Great interview, thanks for doing and posting it. One significant thing that was not addressed is the news of a major patent infringement lawsuit that was circulating a month or so ago. If real, that has the potential to dash all the good progress and plans. The chatter seems to have gone silent on that issue which has me wondering if it was overstated or has somehow been resolved?
Nikki, I, like you, have money down on the Aptera. My thing is still when? I'm 72 and still driving ICE and the Aptera looked like my car. I did rewrite my order to the launch edition, though I'm not an investor. I want electric bad, yet all electric cars that would replace my car would be about 43K or so, that's a bit for a pension. Used would be fine but I can't seem to find one that can accommodate my light disability. I also have a problem with used car dealerships. Please Aptera step it up before I am out of the market. 🥺
Hertz for the 2nd time that I’ve seen has been selling their EV’s for massive discounts. You just have to find the type you want and you could get it much cheaper than $43k, like half that.
I assume he tried Bolt - My new '23 Chevy Bolt EV was $30,000 - 7,500 fed -$2K California rebate =$20,500, far cheaper to run than a gas car, less maintenance, spicy acceleration, it's charged every morning. 259 mi. range. It's a nice ride too. Amazing deals on used Bolts if you qualify for the used credit
Was Mr. Fambro referencing Wink motors when he talked about a company mounting Amazon panels and having vibration degradation? Wink's new Mark 3 pre-order lsv solar edition sure looks like it will have an Aptera-esq solar panel on its roof. A good question for Steve Fambro would be if his side company is supplying panels and/or tech for Wink?
I like the Aptera, and the design criteria the company is working to. When i was a teenager (in the late 1970's) i was fond of drawing new car designs, one of my relatives was a design draughtsman and when i showed him my Aptera shaped car (at the time designed as a mid-engined ICE vehicle he said no one would buy anything shaped like that! i had been inspired by crossing a Morgan three wheeler with a Ferrari Dino. Cars were pretty small back then compared to today's designs and the Aptera is small and light which i think is good, but the problem is going to be seeing around and over today's much fatter vehicles, SUV's predominate and even small cars are huge. i presently run a triumph spitfire, if i park it next to even a new Fiat 500 it is tiny in comparison. The Aptera is wide but it is low. I think customers may find this a problem in modern traffic.
I reserved my days after you did when I saw your video. When Sandy came on board, I also bought shares. 2 things important to me at the time were a tow hitch to pull my motorcycle and 110 outlet to get power for camping things like a small frig and electric skillet. Recently I was told neither will be available for now. Did you get any information on timeline for these?
I delivered, as a Vehicle Transporter for Pilot enclosed carrier, a Bentley that cost $500,000, and was auctioned off , only a few per continent, as athe y won the Le Mans 24 hr race, so they just numbered 24 cars, in honor of the 24 hr race and they were going for $700,000 ...... just for bragging rights , so people have too much money ! Point is I don't think it is off, to have Aptera auction the first numbered, as it may be a PR gain and they need the money, and I'm sure i wouldn't be $700,000 !
Was very excited by Aptera, still am, but no longer hoping for a version that I could use to drive around Scotland, where I live. The width of the vehicle was always going to be a challenge on UK and mainland European minor roads, never mind the roads in the Scottish Highlands. Then the dropping of CCS makes it just not usable outside of the US / Canada. Loss of AWD also reduces use case. Sad not to dream of having one and still hope they succeed in the US, as it is still a very cool concept.
One thing I haven't heard about lately is the "skin cooling" method they were talking about using, I know they used classic radiators in some of their prototypes, I wonder if they will switch to those for early vehicles as well
That has been shelved for the same reason as in-wheel motors. They will use traditional radiators because it's off the shelf and required less engineering to get to market.
So hopefully Aptera produces 50 units next year. From these, 10 to 20 are delivered to customers meaning the first 20 Accelerators, right? Then, who gets the other 30 vehicles? Would they be within or without the 2,000+ numbered and serialized LE Apterae?
I've been a reservation holder for some years now, with the TE referral from back then, and while I do still hope to drive this vehicle some day, I also still think there's a decent chance I'll never get to buy one. And yes, I do think there is a market for smaller, lighter, more efficient cars. But the Aptera is not small, and that will also put off a lot of customers. Also curious to see how this vehicle will be classified in Europe, because I do think over here they risk getting classified as a car as they are too wide for any smaller classification.
I don't think they can be classified as a car. Three-wheelers in Europe have a well defined category. They are classified as tricycles or trikes. They will simply ban it because of its width, etc., or until it is redesigned for the continent or gets special exemption.
nice Journalism. watching some Aptera coverage lately, this in-wheel question was obviously in the back of investor (and potential consumer once they know the in-wheel choice), minds. Timely interview: Transport Evolved has years of smarter coverage; not unlike AutolineDaily or whoever, serious about the sector--in that (same) regard. Aptera like tsla holding a vision has the potential to eat the transport sector. If mbs or someone with obvious interest on future relevant sectors (what does Saudi have so-much of if not sun) wishes Free opinion, feel at liberty to (audio, etc.) contact (the phone connected to this account). Aptera has challenges as tsla did (or lcid still does).. ..But the approach has Brilliance, eh? :)
Switching to an in-board motor is the better choice. I think it's a mistake to plan for in-wheel motors in the future as they have a lot of undesirable traits. Shock and vibration are probably the main ones, as each wheel motor has nothing between it and the road except the tire, whereas an in-board motor would be far more fully protected and shock would be absorbed by the tires and the full suspension system. It would also be fully protected from the elements, unlike the in-wheel motors. If I were them I would only do an in-wheel motor on the rear wheel for the all wheel drive version later on down the road.
@@andrewmclean1239 There will still be those serious issues to contend with though with virtually no protection from shock and vibration or the elements. The design is greatly simplified with the in-board motor as well. Lots of plusses.
As a non american .. explain me why these guy s seem so rooted almost boring but at the same time they design a super strange logic carcecle :-) and they seem to make the best descicions . !!!??
Steve is right about FUD on the news that is literally paid for by US auto ads. Chinese EVs that cost $16-20K would sell like hotcakes. It’s US auto, not US consumers, that are lukewarm about EVs.
"Only 2.5% of Cybertruck reservation holders purchased the vehicle, which may be one of the largest mismatches between reservations and sales in history." The reasons are numerous, but when it comes time to pay the bill, the tree of enthusiasm holds little fruit.
I have a question I haven't seen asked or answered anywhere regarding aptera. Can I travel with the hatch lid open, like you can in a regular car with the trunk lid open
"I don't believe the truth is being manifested in the news." Isn't that a quote for our times. The anti-EV special interests are hard at work; no formal conspiracy is even necessary.
But people love bells and whistles. That's why the Model Y is the best-selling car in the world, gas or electric. When a car is the most successful in the world, it's because buyers find more value delivered per dollar spent. Only one car can outsell all the others!
Does anyone have a problem with him saying they are working all these other "solar" projects when they have taken so much investment from people buying a place in line to buy a car that hasn't been invented yet? I've seen him bring this up several times. If I were an investor I would have hoped for a more laser focus. Perhaps with that focus you would have been able to avoid scrapping your entire drive train just days before assembling your "production intent" vehicles. Initally, Aptera listed solar cells as just an option, much like the camping tent. Now solar cells seem to suddenly be the reason for the car's existence. They've never shared data or performance on them but even at their theoretical limits they will be of marginal benefit to the car unless you live in the desert. The ROI on the solar capabilities of thes car is negative for the consumer. As a hype generator, it's priceless.
Solar, I am sure, adds to the cost to the consumer at initial purchase. But your vehicle is so efficient, making it a lower cost plug in only would be more successful for lower income potential buyers. We are retired. We use our run about car once or twice per week. We drive within 50 miles per trip. So, solar just might make this car unaffordable on our limited income. Having a lower cost non solar version would be our only choice.
One reason for flagging EV sales that seems to have been overlooked by the industry is that early adopter's of EV's have all bought their vehicle's within the past few year's and they don't need new one's yet. In addition, EV's haven't yet reached a critical mass where most people know someone who has one and speak's well of it. Micromobility vehicles are selling just fine, so it isn't skepticism of the technology, it's that they are durable good's that saw an initial surge in sales and those vehicle's don't yet need replacement. This is only one factor, there are other's, but I'm not qualified to speak on the subject of politics, pricing or that apartment and condominium dwellers cannot refuel their vehicle's.
@@mossydog2385 I recharged my Smart ED at my apartment complex back in 2013 with an extension cord, now my 2016 Chevy Spark EV is now 8 years old and I charge at my house. My wife and I are patiently waiting for the Aptera to be available. There are people who have been driving EV's over a decade. We'll never buy a Tesla because of Elon Musk.
Steve seems to have changed the Aptera goal/mission. Now it is "powered by the sun". It was originally "maximum efficiency". (The original vehicle was not even solar.) The change is a focus diffusion that does not make me happy, but as a boss once told me: happiness is not a requirement. I do hope the company keeps track of core requirements.
@@jamespaul2587 Even if "Maximum Efficiency" is the primary aim, there are practical considerations. They could use titanium chassis for example - Less weight, and 'maximum efficiency', but they aren't going to due to cost. There are always compromises. Yes, the in-board motor will be a small hit to efficiency, but they wouldn't have got the vehicle to market by 2027. Compromises.
I suggest the rear view mirror/camera be moved to between the left and right side mirror screens. As a 6' 2" driver that needs to sit upright. I fear the bottom of the rear view mirror/screen will be below my eye level as is with all but one vehicle i have ever sat in at the auto shows. Honda's is the one vehicle i fit in. I often see how aptera has plenty of head room for tall drivers. So what... i have never sat in a driver seat where my head or hair touched the ceiling.
. I am in Minnesota. It will be a long time before Aptera brings one within 500 miles of me. Chicago. So no, I have not been able to sit in an Aptera.
So many questions. How could they commit to the shipping dates they had in the past when they: a) had not completed crash testing and certifications, b) not designed an inverter and c) not completing the cooling design. They also walked away from their custom control bus and back to CanBus (the standard). Really they are almost back to square one. I question if all the tooling they built is usable. And as for the solar claims - which I question the accuracy of - they will need to be re-evaluated. Although it helps not driving three independent 50KW motors. ( Which they said was 100W/hr per mile????)
I don't they are legally required to complete crash testing and certifications because they have 3 wheels. The 100W/hr doesn't have a lot to do with the motors.
No thanks. I hear that those buttons are ridiculously expensive. It’s crazy to think that a tablet is cheaper than a bunch of buttons but that’s the world we live in.
The 20 best-selling vehicles in 2024: Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ram pickup, Toyota Camry, GMC Sierra, Nissan Rogue, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Tesla Model Y, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Chevrolet Equinox, Ford Explorer, Subaru Forester, Hyundai Tucson, Chevrolet Trax, Nissan Sentra, Ford Transit, Subaru Outback. All hold between 5 and 7 passengers (except the Ford Transit cargo van). There are some high-mpg models, but not a single two-seater. A whopping 49 two-seater vehicles were available, but all were either high-performance sports cars or trucks, and none were sold in significant volume. There is no indication that Aptera will be able to sell enough cars to make a profit or cover its capitalization. No matter how good the Aptera is, there is no indication of sufficient demand for a two-seater car, EV or gas.
if people are buying abomination like ford lighting and super expensive tesla- I bet that people will buy Aptera. Look that there was no market for electric bikes- now they are very popular. I think the ev which you can charge outdoors will be very interesting machine. If they will finally deliver lets say 70% of what they promised- that will be a great start.
@@kevinpolito1529 I am suggesting that the Fiero created a demand for a sporty 2 seater commuter car, And that Aptera could do the same [add efficient].
So, cutting through the corporate PR speak, Aptera don't have the capacity, technical and/or financial, to develop an in-house inverter. Motor control inverters arn't rocket science (the technology is over 50 years old), so this doesn't bode well. The problem that Aptera faces is that automotive development is very capital intensive and Aptera is woefully under-capitslized. The reason they haven't been able to raise the capital required is that their likely market is too small to justify the capital needed. Sources of serious capital understand this, hence Aptera going to "Mom and Pop" customers for capital.
It usually takes legacy auto five years and $2B to bring a new vehicle to market. If Aptera succeeds with USCapital Global they can move to high volume production by next year for under $200M. That is what can happen when your not a car, and not a motorcycle, but a disruptive vehicle in it's own space.
I really like your vehicle and can say I am a fan. But you've managed to ruin a very good original drivetrain concept by putting a conventional drivetrain in the vehicle. I hope that in the future you will go back to the original concept of all-wheel drive without differentials, half-axles, etc.
Awesome info Mr. Fambro, keep on truckin'. Accelerator 1295 is ready to lend any further support. Just raise the banner and I will be there. Thank you Nikki for the coverage.
I like this interview and this channel is the best place for EV info. But I wonder if a gas and then hybrid version of this car wouldn't have been a positive thing. IC cars with the profile of Aptera would be great for combatting climate change. I sure hope this makes it to production and becomes a success, but I'm worried at how long its taking and then the fact its undergoing major engineering changes so close to the finish line. I want this to cost $10000 and become the urban small family transport of choice. Your ablitity to talk to Aptera and address BYD is awesome!
I am hoping that Aptera can survive long enough to not only sell vehicles, but survive to service them and grow, but I am afraid that it won’t happen. Don’t want to get Fiskered.
OK, you do you. I've managed fine without side airbags my whole life and haven't needed them. Seats belts and front airbags are enough for me. (Aptera will be tested publically for side collisions as well.)
As a holder of reservation number 10131, I plan to hold off purchase until they return to hub motors, produce the longer range battery pack (maybe not 600 miles, but whatever extra range the taller cells have), heated seats (this isn't rocket surgery), and a heat pump, and until they redesign the windshield wiper so that it covers the entire width of the windshield. It might be a while.
I commute with an Arcimoto FUV employing a DEFENSIVE mindset, much like a veteran motorcyclist. My ride makes me a ninja in the battlefield-as-traffic SoCal commute. Keep sitting on your hands, I'm taking delivery of my Aptera by 2025/2026.
Have you used your seat belts or front airbags? When you get hit from the side. You don't see that coming. In 1970. Lap belts were just fine for most people. Despite air bags and crush zones and a handful of other safety features. Deaths /million miles just keeps climbing. @fotoguru222
Thanks Nikki for making Steve finally speak about the real reason for the switch of the motors: risk and money regarding integration, especially with the inverters.
This was the first I have heard specifically about the inverters. This is a good reason to delay all-wheel drive. Before it was very vague and that made me uncomfortable.
@@TheScottShepardyes there was a lot of speculation. But the integration / inverter topic is in line with what I personally was told in Ljubljana.
See our interview @apterasolar
@@TheScottShepard Yes, previous explanation was vague. If the inverters are the real reason not to currently have an AWD or in wheel motor option why didn't they just say so? Something doesn't smell right.
@@Mr.Nobody-xz2xo It's the smell of concern-trolls in the morning.
@@Mr.Nobody-xz2xo ya think?
IMO, Aptera is the most exciting and promising vehicle on the road. It has enormous potential.
Excellent interview. Thank you for asking questions that other outlets that have interviewed the founders haven't asked!
Thanks for posting this informative interview! Steve’s comments regarding the switch from in-wheel motors to a central motor provided more insight into the reasons for it. There are many people who are eagerly waiting for their Aptera - truly transport evolved!
This is why I like Transport Evolved. Aptera's switch to the off-the-shelf motor has been extensively covered, but only Nikki so far has drilled down on why. Before now, all we had was speculation. Now we know the reasoning, and have a statement of intent to return to hub motors in the future, which is something I would wait for.
Appreciated this. Thank you! For our part, we're very excited for the day we can drive our Aptera. Go team!
As an Aptera reservation holder I'm excited to see the latest news on this amazing vehicle. Thank you Nikki!
I see Aptera as a logical transition in personal ground transport. I have for 40 years, dreamed that this paradigm would evolve. I ordered two in 2020. If I lived close, I would ask them to let me watch the daily progress.
You know .. I think you are representing the core believers .. I am pretty much like you .. actually we should all meet somewhere in nature.. not talking about a car but enjoying nature and knowing we have this mutual understanding ... I would love to see our family !!!
Who knew there was something left worth while to look forward to in 2024?
Thanks Nikki! Always good to hear from Steve, where we know we'll get the bottom line. Officially #142 now, looking forward to driving ours home to Oregon by next fall... 🤞. Your neighbor in the northwest.
Only 1451, then again, as a European, I'll probably have to wait and hope it ever crosses the Atlantic.
Qhats your price ??? And please send it to the netherlands :-) ... oke oke enjoy !!! I ll wait
Thank you. Much more informative than the official Aptera update from Aptera!
Such a great interview!!! I've been watching a LOT of Aptera videos for the past month(s) and it just fuels my excitement each time, to see this wonderful feat of engineering taking over our roads.
Exciting developments from Aptera!
I still have my reservation for the 600 mile model, but I wonder how long I will have to wait. I'm 78 yrs old now, and can't wait for long.
Since no one yet produces the battery cells they've designed in for their 600 mile version, I expect you'll have a long wait.
I originally ordered the same 600 mile version, but I realized 400 mile EPA range is is more than I'll need per day for all my future driving.
You may want to just get the 400 mile version, and invest in flexible portable solar panels to top up the charge directly if available, or to power a solar generator that can then charge the vehicle. You may also find a 400-mile range to be sufficient, many people overestimate their needs.
@@jamespaul2587 I want to use it as a trip vehicle.
@@jdavidadams7796 yes, but you will be stopping on long trips for food, drinks and washrooms, and if charging stations are available, the vehicle will charge very quickly. It will be able to use the Tesla charging network which is well established in many regions.
@@jdavidadams7796 There are charging stations for that. A 400 mile range battery is way more than double what most people need as it is. Stoping to charge every 350 miles or so is a smart thing as it reduces dangerous driver fatigue, and the chance of blood clots.. unless you are really in a hurry and then you should consider flying : )
Thank you Nikki and Steve! Excellent interview and information!
485... Glad you got the chance to catch up with Steve. Everyone's busy at Aptera! Keep Evolving!!!
I just loved this interview!!!
I still have 1 ICE vehicle. I have 120W of traditional solar panels on the roof to replace the alternator for my short commute, and to handle road trip electricity needs. I would love to have the whole car covered with Aptera solar panels, even if it's not an electric car.
@@madcow3417 do you drive at night?
@@hoffinger I do. The alternator is still there. I have the panels set to charge the battery above the alternator voltage. On short trips the battery doesn't drop below the alternator voltage and the panels can recharge the battery before I drive again. I couldn't figure out how to modify the alternator charge voltage to do this with lead acid, but the batteries are safe because I'm using a 6s LTO battery.
Thanks!
love that the Aptera has a Cd of 0.13, which is so important in efficiently utilizing power, and consequently requiring smaller batteries.
The design is great, but I am curious how this body type will fair in areas with heavy snow conditions. I hope Aptera has aero designa which offer enough ground clearance, yet, maintain that killer low Cd.
Yay, i do want more videos about Aptera from you guys because i value your input!
I love the aptera. Looking forward to production.
I do hope that Aptera some day releases vehicles, but it has been a long and bumpy road for them.
Like nuclear fusion electricity generation… just around the corner, but never going to make a difference.
@@dominicgoodwin1147cap
Gonna be a bit less bumpy now that the motors are no longer in the wheels
@@Hans-gb4mv Agreed!!
The early loss of legal control resulting from the inclusion of legacy Detroit executives was infuriating for me to witness. Now, I see it will result in a much better vehicle, due to new tech.
Thanks Nikki, I'm going back and watch it again.
Me2
Great interview!! Quietly observing and not easily ruffled its feathers, by going back to their core WHY he created a almost soul comforting truth instead of spin or hysteric response to the media frenzy. Aptera can be thankful for their two leaders who steer the company towards production. It takes balls, and a lot of zen to make this into reality and clearly they have mastered it to perfection! Well done Aptera!
Great interview. Both great questions and answers. Was interesting to hear of risk involved with inverters causing switch of drivetrain, and as many as 50 PIs being built for numerous testing and some of them being sold off by Q2 at latest while other products such as solar panelled airport vehicles and school buses are sold or being developed for sale as another line of business that is closely aligned with the main line of business.
Oh yeah there ya go. This was a great interview. Love to Steve. Going gangbusters. That last few comments is very believable. I’d have trouble breaking away too. What a fun time in Aptera’s life.❤
Nice to hear Aptera has already developed their own main computer. That's big. Great to hear from the top brass that they're still committed to AWD and in-wheel motors. Great to hear Steve say that their enclosed autocycle constitutes a new vehicle segment. It felt to me like they would need to find a regulatory niche. Let's hope they have everything they need to get production rolling in 2025!
Thanks for posting this interview. I have been very interested in Aptera.
What a refreshingly honest interview with Steve.
go aptera go!! PLEASE!!!!!
I just hope they make it. They are the only ones differentiated from all the other EV makers including Tesla and the Chinese. Speed is of essence as the world is catching on to what they’re doing. Nikki, you did a great job as usual.
Thank you from Cornwall, Ontario. Excellent video and excellent questions.
This interview gives me a lot of trust in this company making choices .. I know that's hard choices .. but aptera always has been good in saving money ... I still hope to own one in holland .. it will be the first new car In my life .. but I waited long enough for such a splendid design !!!
Great info. Thanks.
Thanks
Indeed, Aptera has made significant progress. Given the experiences with Solo tri-wheel EVs, it would be intriguing to observe the business case and product strategies developed for the Aptera vehicles/platform. The vehicle boasts features such as a carbon fiber body, substantial footprint (akin to a two-seater plus two additional tires, and an extended wheelbase), front-wheel drive, and rooftop solar panels. This raises questions about the intended customer demographic, cost and profit margins, management of vehicle dynamics (including center of gravity and braking), and the degree of regulatory compliance. As more specifications and designs become available, insights into the product's competitiveness and performance are anticipated.
10 states have right-to-charge laws that allow residents to install electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in their homes or apartment buildings:
Great interview thank you so much and same to Steve
Excellent interview .
I feel it’s the big auto industry who is putting up all the fuss,they have done it before
I think there are several factors that are currently slowing EV adoption but here are the two I think are most relevant:
🔹Most vehicle manufacturers have chosen to focus on big SUVs mostly because they are already heavy so the batteries make less of a difference but most of them are also aiming for the high end luxury market which is already pretty saturated. The mass market is for cheaper vehicles and those aren't really good enough yet - but Aptera could be a very good fit.
🔹Many people still don't have easy access to charging where they park their car and that is slowing adoption.
Great interview, thanks for doing and posting it. One significant thing that was not addressed is the news of a major patent infringement lawsuit that was circulating a month or so ago. If real, that has the potential to dash all the good progress and plans. The chatter seems to have gone silent on that issue which has me wondering if it was overstated or has somehow been resolved?
Nikki, I, like you, have money down on the Aptera. My thing is still when? I'm 72 and still driving ICE and the Aptera looked like my car. I did rewrite my order to the launch edition, though I'm not an investor.
I want electric bad, yet all electric cars that would replace my car would be about 43K or so, that's a bit for a pension. Used would be fine but I can't seem to find one that can accommodate my light disability. I also have a problem with used car dealerships.
Please Aptera step it up before I am out of the market. 🥺
If you're waiting on Aptera, I'm worried that you'll be waiting forever... Go buy a used EV! A Bolt EV is a great choice.
To be realistic, you might be waiting till 2027 if you aren’t high up on the reservation list. A used EV might be your best bet in the meantime.
You should be able to find a quality used EV out there.
Hertz for the 2nd time that I’ve seen has been selling their EV’s for massive discounts. You just have to find the type you want and you could get it much cheaper than $43k, like half that.
I assume he tried Bolt - My new '23 Chevy Bolt EV was $30,000 - 7,500 fed -$2K California rebate =$20,500, far cheaper to run than a gas car, less maintenance, spicy acceleration, it's charged every morning. 259 mi. range. It's a nice ride too. Amazing deals on used Bolts if you qualify for the used credit
I’m hoping Aptera will have a manual preconditioning option. That would really help with fast charging on trips!!
Was Mr. Fambro referencing Wink motors when he talked about a company mounting Amazon panels and having vibration degradation? Wink's new Mark 3 pre-order lsv solar edition sure looks like it will have an Aptera-esq solar panel on its roof. A good question for Steve Fambro would be if his side company is supplying panels and/or tech for Wink?
I like the Aptera, and the design criteria the company is working to. When i was a teenager (in the late 1970's) i was fond of drawing new car designs, one of my relatives was a design draughtsman and when i showed him my Aptera shaped car (at the time designed as a mid-engined ICE vehicle he said no one would buy anything shaped like that! i had been inspired by crossing a Morgan three wheeler with a Ferrari Dino. Cars were pretty small back then compared to today's designs and the Aptera is small and light which i think is good, but the problem is going to be seeing around and over today's much fatter vehicles, SUV's predominate and even small cars are huge. i presently run a triumph spitfire, if i park it next to even a new Fiat 500 it is tiny in comparison. The Aptera is wide but it is low. I think customers may find this a problem in modern traffic.
Far more informative than what aptera puts out itself.
Very good episode 👍
Awesome!
I reserved my days after you did when I saw your video. When Sandy came on board, I also bought shares. 2 things important to me at the time were a tow hitch to pull my motorcycle and 110 outlet to get power for camping things like a small frig and electric skillet. Recently I was told neither will be available for now. Did you get any information on timeline for these?
Excellent interview
Nice.
I delivered, as a Vehicle Transporter for Pilot enclosed carrier, a Bentley that cost $500,000, and was auctioned off , only a few per continent, as athe y won the Le Mans 24 hr race, so they just numbered 24 cars, in honor of the 24 hr race and they were going for $700,000 ...... just for bragging rights , so people have too much money ! Point is I don't think it is off, to have Aptera auction the first numbered, as it may be a PR gain and they need the money, and I'm sure i wouldn't be $700,000 !
I wish Elio would have produced their 84 mpg $8500 3 wheeler.
They seemed to be so close too. Even leased a manufacturing facility in Louisiana. Then the money dried up. It's hard to be a start up.
Was very excited by Aptera, still am, but no longer hoping for a version that I could use to drive around Scotland, where I live. The width of the vehicle was always going to be a challenge on UK and mainland European minor roads, never mind the roads in the Scottish Highlands. Then the dropping of CCS makes it just not usable outside of the US / Canada. Loss of AWD also reduces use case. Sad not to dream of having one and still hope they succeed in the US, as it is still a very cool concept.
One thing I haven't heard about lately is the "skin cooling" method they were talking about using, I know they used classic radiators in some of their prototypes, I wonder if they will switch to those for early vehicles as well
That has been shelved for the same reason as in-wheel motors. They will use traditional radiators because it's off the shelf and required less engineering to get to market.
Everything is looking great, just one question: Can I drive 50 spirited miles in 120 degrees F?🌵
So hopefully Aptera produces 50 units next year. From these, 10 to 20 are delivered to customers meaning the first 20 Accelerators, right? Then, who gets the other 30 vehicles? Would they be within or without the 2,000+ numbered and serialized LE Apterae?
50 units before Q2. The other 30 are going to be for Aptera testing. They'll give them to employees and have them crash tested.
I've been a reservation holder for some years now, with the TE referral from back then, and while I do still hope to drive this vehicle some day, I also still think there's a decent chance I'll never get to buy one.
And yes, I do think there is a market for smaller, lighter, more efficient cars. But the Aptera is not small, and that will also put off a lot of customers. Also curious to see how this vehicle will be classified in Europe, because I do think over here they risk getting classified as a car as they are too wide for any smaller classification.
I don't think they can be classified as a car. Three-wheelers in Europe have a well defined category. They are classified as tricycles or trikes. They will simply ban it because of its width, etc., or until it is redesigned for the continent or gets special exemption.
they would need to put passenger seats a bit back, and then maybe there will be a possibility to squeeze that car.
nice Journalism. watching some Aptera coverage lately, this in-wheel question was obviously in the back of investor (and potential consumer once they know the in-wheel choice), minds. Timely interview: Transport Evolved has years of smarter coverage; not unlike AutolineDaily or whoever, serious about the sector--in that (same) regard.
Aptera like tsla holding a vision has the potential to eat the transport sector.
If mbs or someone with obvious interest on future relevant sectors (what does Saudi have so-much of if not sun) wishes Free opinion, feel at liberty to (audio, etc.) contact (the phone connected to this account). Aptera has challenges as tsla did (or lcid still does).. ..But the approach has Brilliance, eh? :)
Switching to an in-board motor is the better choice. I think it's a mistake to plan for in-wheel motors in the future as they have a lot of undesirable traits. Shock and vibration are probably the main ones, as each wheel motor has nothing between it and the road except the tire, whereas an in-board motor would be far more fully protected and shock would be absorbed by the tires and the full suspension system. It would also be fully protected from the elements, unlike the in-wheel motors. If I were them I would only do an in-wheel motor on the rear wheel for the all wheel drive version later on down the road.
I think that IWM will be viable soon. I think it will be quite a while until Aptera goes IWM for all three wheels.
@@andrewmclean1239 There will still be those serious issues to contend with though with virtually no protection from shock and vibration or the elements. The design is greatly simplified with the in-board motor as well. Lots of plusses.
and, one gets a smoother ride with the mass on the same side of the suspension as the passengers
@@markshields9284 True. Less unsprung weight means the wheels can respond to the road faster and easier.
As a non american .. explain me why these guy s seem so rooted almost boring but at the same time they design a super strange logic carcecle :-) and they seem to make the best descicions . !!!??
Thanks Nikki ( Te) and Steve for this “ refresh “
Ha “ Expecting Fathers of Apterae” 😆 what do we bring when they arrive ?!
Steve is right about FUD on the news that is literally paid for by US auto ads. Chinese EVs that cost $16-20K would sell like hotcakes. It’s US auto, not US consumers, that are lukewarm about EVs.
Can the inverter in the EMR3 also power a hub motor in the rear wheel?
Didn't they cancel third wheel?
Highly doubt that. It needs to be independent
@@rp9674 They didn't cancel the third wheel. They cancelled the third rear motor. Like in every ICE FWD car, the rear wheel won't be powered.
@adimchionyenadum2962 what i meant, didn't think they were turning it into a Segway
Aptera has a long, proud history of not-yet-producing cars. But with the pent-up demand for two-passenger vehicles, they should do well, someday.
If they make it to volume production
This just shows how hard it is to bring a disruptive vehicle to market. If it was easy any legacy auto company could do it.
@@barnabasseadog7660 You really have to start from scratch.
because they have not started putting them on the road. they have been telling a tale for a very long time.
"Only 2.5% of Cybertruck reservation holders purchased the vehicle, which may be one of the largest mismatches between reservations and sales in history." The reasons are numerous, but when it comes time to pay the bill, the tree of enthusiasm holds little fruit.
I have a question I haven't seen asked or answered anywhere regarding aptera. Can I travel with the hatch lid open, like you can in a regular car with the trunk lid open
I have my reservation in, waiting with baited breath for the 2025 Release !
"I don't believe the truth is being manifested in the news." Isn't that a quote for our times. The anti-EV special interests are hard at work; no formal conspiracy is even necessary.
But people love bells and whistles. That's why the Model Y is the best-selling car in the world, gas or electric. When a car is the most successful in the world, it's because buyers find more value delivered per dollar spent. Only one car can outsell all the others!
Does anyone have a problem with him saying they are working all these other "solar" projects when they have taken so much investment from people buying a place in line to buy a car that hasn't been invented yet? I've seen him bring this up several times. If I were an investor I would have hoped for a more laser focus. Perhaps with that focus you would have been able to avoid scrapping your entire drive train just days before assembling your "production intent" vehicles.
Initally, Aptera listed solar cells as just an option, much like the camping tent. Now solar cells seem to suddenly be the reason for the car's existence. They've never shared data or performance on them but even at their theoretical limits they will be of marginal benefit to the car unless you live in the desert. The ROI on the solar capabilities of thes car is negative for the consumer. As a hype generator, it's priceless.
If in-wheel motor is only planned for the rear.
All wheel drive will require three motors.
???
You can accomplish all wheel drive with two motors, but three would offer finer control.
ICE vehicles that are AWD do not have 4 motors with one motor per wheel. So why would the Aptera need to have that?
Does Aptera have a differential?@@danielthompson3928
@fotoguru222 he says in the video that in the future, only the rear wheel will have an in-hub motor
Solar, I am sure, adds to the cost to the consumer at initial purchase. But your vehicle is so efficient, making it a lower cost plug in only would be more successful for lower income potential buyers. We are retired. We use our run about car once or twice per week. We drive within 50 miles per trip. So, solar just might make this car unaffordable on our limited income. Having a lower cost non solar version would be our only choice.
One reason for flagging EV sales that seems to have been overlooked by the industry is that early adopter's of EV's have all bought their vehicle's within the past few year's and they don't need new one's yet. In addition, EV's haven't yet reached a critical mass where most people know someone who has one and speak's well of it. Micromobility vehicles are selling just fine, so it isn't skepticism of the technology, it's that they are durable good's that saw an initial surge in sales and those vehicle's don't yet need replacement. This is only one factor, there are other's, but I'm not qualified to speak on the subject of politics, pricing or that apartment and condominium dwellers cannot refuel their vehicle's.
@@mossydog2385 I recharged my Smart ED at my apartment complex back in 2013 with an extension cord, now my 2016 Chevy Spark EV is now 8 years old and I charge at my house. My wife and I are patiently waiting for the Aptera to be available. There are people who have been driving EV's over a decade. We'll never buy a Tesla because of Elon Musk.
The distance formation campaign more than anything
Steve seems to have changed the Aptera goal/mission. Now it is "powered by the sun". It was originally "maximum efficiency". (The original vehicle was not even solar.) The change is a focus diffusion that does not make me happy, but as a boss once told me: happiness is not a requirement. I do hope the company keeps track of core requirements.
Every journey powered by the sun assumed maximum efficiency.
@@andrewmclean1239not necessarily, when the vehicle itself is less efficient than originally planned
@@jamespaul2587 Even if "Maximum Efficiency" is the primary aim, there are practical considerations. They could use titanium chassis for example - Less weight, and 'maximum efficiency', but they aren't going to due to cost. There are always compromises.
Yes, the in-board motor will be a small hit to efficiency, but they wouldn't have got the vehicle to market by 2027. Compromises.
@@jamespaul2587 Necessarily, because without that, there can be no meaningful solar mobility.
I suggest the rear view mirror/camera be moved to between the left and right side mirror screens.
As a 6' 2" driver that needs to sit upright. I fear the bottom of the rear view mirror/screen will be below my eye level as is with all but one vehicle i have ever sat in at the auto shows.
Honda's is the one vehicle i fit in.
I often see how aptera has plenty of head room for tall drivers.
So what... i have never sat in a driver seat where my head or hair touched the ceiling.
When you drove the Delta, is that what you noticed? I wonder if Aptera will change this for the production version.
I have this problem with just about every modern vehicle I’ve sat in. It’s a weirdly common safety oversight
It's annoying, it's probably there for a reason, to a compromise to accommodate drivers of different heights
. I am in Minnesota. It will be a long time before Aptera brings one within 500 miles of me. Chicago.
So no, I have not been able to sit in an Aptera.
It's nice to know that there or others out there with this concern.
I am thinking that the Aptera front wheels will catch 'L'
👍👍👍👍👍
So many questions. How could they commit to the shipping dates they had in the past when they: a) had not completed crash testing and certifications, b) not designed an inverter and c) not completing the cooling design. They also walked away from their custom control bus and back to CanBus (the standard). Really they are almost back to square one. I question if all the tooling they built is usable. And as for the solar claims - which I question the accuracy of - they will need to be re-evaluated. Although it helps not driving three independent 50KW motors. ( Which they said was 100W/hr per mile????)
I don't they are legally required to complete crash testing and certifications because they have 3 wheels. The 100W/hr doesn't have a lot to do with the motors.
What about EU version?
how about a date ?
i want one i can afford . looks like musk is going to have the ev model T first.
No no, it is clear to me that it is a car. It is an unusual car, but having three wheels is not enough by itself to push it out of the car category.
Tesla robotaxi tech in an aptera would be cool.
I hope Aptera survives long enough to come to their senses and add buttons instead of the silly screen only approach
No thanks. I hear that those buttons are ridiculously expensive. It’s crazy to think that a tablet is cheaper than a bunch of buttons but that’s the world we live in.
@@danielthompson3928 When it comes to safety, I don't care about that cost. I'll gladly pay $500 more for some buttons.
@@Hans-gb4mvyou’d be paying a lot more than that!
The 20 best-selling vehicles in 2024: Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ram pickup, Toyota Camry, GMC Sierra, Nissan Rogue, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Tesla Model Y, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Chevrolet Equinox, Ford Explorer, Subaru Forester, Hyundai Tucson, Chevrolet Trax, Nissan Sentra, Ford Transit, Subaru Outback. All hold between 5 and 7 passengers (except the Ford Transit cargo van). There are some high-mpg models, but not a single two-seater. A whopping 49 two-seater vehicles were available, but all were either high-performance sports cars or trucks, and none were sold in significant volume. There is no indication that Aptera will be able to sell enough cars to make a profit or cover its capitalization. No matter how good the Aptera is, there is no indication of sufficient demand for a two-seater car, EV or gas.
if people are buying abomination like ford lighting and super expensive tesla- I bet that people will buy Aptera. Look that there was no market for electric bikes- now they are very popular. I think the ev which you can charge outdoors will be very interesting machine. If they will finally deliver lets say 70% of what they promised- that will be a great start.
Pontiac Fiero sold 370,000 in 5 years.
@@LanderMaybe So you're citing something that occurred 36 years ago and has not been repeated since to suggest the current market for 2-seater cars?
@@kevinpolito1529 I am suggesting that the Fiero created a demand for a sporty 2 seater commuter car,
And that Aptera could do the same [add efficient].
@@LanderMaybe I guess we'll have to wait and see. Maybe in our lifetime.
So, cutting through the corporate PR speak, Aptera don't have the capacity, technical and/or financial, to develop an in-house inverter. Motor control inverters arn't rocket science (the technology is over 50 years old), so this doesn't bode well. The problem that Aptera faces is that automotive development is very capital intensive and Aptera is woefully under-capitslized. The reason they haven't been able to raise the capital required is that their likely market is too small to justify the capital needed. Sources of serious capital understand this, hence Aptera going to "Mom and Pop" customers for capital.
It usually takes legacy auto five years and $2B to bring a new vehicle to market. If Aptera succeeds with USCapital Global they can move to high volume production by next year for under $200M. That is what can happen when your not a car, and not a motorcycle, but a disruptive vehicle in it's own space.
I love the aptera concept but I now get the feeling everything is always tomorrow.
They pushed back my delivery date to 2026 from 2025😢
I really like your vehicle and can say I am a fan. But you've managed to ruin a very good original drivetrain concept by putting a conventional drivetrain in the vehicle. I hope that in the future you will go back to the original concept of all-wheel drive without differentials, half-axles, etc.
Awesome info Mr. Fambro, keep on truckin'. Accelerator 1295 is ready to lend any further support. Just raise the banner and I will be there. Thank you Nikki for the coverage.
This is actually helpful. At some point Optera started looking like Nicola motors.
I like this interview and this channel is the best place for EV info. But I wonder if a gas and then hybrid version of this car wouldn't have been a positive thing. IC cars with the profile of Aptera would be great for combatting climate change. I sure hope this makes it to production and becomes a success, but I'm worried at how long its taking and then the fact its undergoing major engineering changes so close to the finish line. I want this to cost $10000 and become the urban small family transport of choice. Your ablitity to talk to Aptera and address BYD is awesome!
@@marcjohnson4884 think outside of the combustion chamber 🤡
I am hoping that Aptera can survive long enough to not only sell vehicles, but survive to service them and grow, but I am afraid that it won’t happen.
Don’t want to get Fiskered.
It will happen! The first PI vehicle should be released today! Production and delivery of first vehicles by the second quarter of 2025!
I hope you are right.
@@Derpy1969 - Today is the day. First fully functional Aptera will be released today. I have read this from Aptera insiders. So, they know the truth.
@gmv0553 those timelines will likely change, with all the delays so far, and with major design changes recently
@@jamespaul2587 - Chris Anthony told me it was the end of September. So, I believe him.
Sid AirBags...
As a long time reservation holder.
I plan to hold off purchasing until they put in side airbags.
OK, you do you. I've managed fine without side airbags my whole life and haven't needed them. Seats belts and front airbags are enough for me. (Aptera will be tested publically for side collisions as well.)
As a holder of reservation number 10131, I plan to hold off purchase until they return to hub motors, produce the longer range battery pack (maybe not 600 miles, but whatever extra range the taller cells have), heated seats (this isn't rocket surgery), and a heat pump, and until they redesign the windshield wiper so that it covers the entire width of the windshield.
It might be a while.
@@fotoguru222 until the day you don't manage without and they could have saved you.
I commute with an Arcimoto FUV employing a DEFENSIVE mindset, much like a veteran motorcyclist. My ride makes me a ninja in the battlefield-as-traffic SoCal commute.
Keep sitting on your hands, I'm taking delivery of my Aptera by 2025/2026.
Have you used your seat belts or front airbags?
When you get hit from the side. You don't see that coming.
In 1970. Lap belts were just fine for most people.
Despite air bags and crush zones and a handful of other safety features. Deaths /million miles just keeps climbing.
@fotoguru222
So 30-40 of the first 50 production vehicles go to whom? (Before the Accelerators)
Employees and crash testing I'm willing to bet.
They're going to Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait. The Arabs dumped a ton of money to get the first vehicles.
solar powered water pump a no way lose. soon maybe is not making it.
Have Aptera license Tesla FSD and software updates or have Tesla buy Aptera.
You probably want a Tesla. I hope that Aptera stays with OpenPilot and maintains it's autonomy.