Aptera: The New Electric Car on the Block

Electric car entrepreneurs are really starting to gather momentum this year. Joining the ranks of the Tesla and the Phoenix, the Aptera intends to begin production in late 2008. What makes the Aptera stand out (in addition to its unique aerodynamic design), is its versatility and price. The Aptera is available in two models: a plug-in electric hybrid model ($29, 900) and an all-electric model ($26, 900). Individuals and organizations can reserve an Aptera today for $500 on their website. Talk about a sleek car to slap a corporate logo on for instant green-cred!

Some spec details from the Aptera website:
Safety: Aptera provides a significant amount of info that says that this vehicle exceeds all current federal and state safety regulations.
Performance: The Aptera reaches over 85 mph, and goes 0-60 in less than 10 seconds.
Range and Charge Time: The all-electric model (Aptera Typ-1e) has a range of 120 miles on a full charge. (Charge time: 2-4 hrs, $1-$2 in electricity costs for a full charge). The plug-in electric model (Aptera Typ-1h) is expected to average 300 mpg in combined city/highway driving.

Aptera is Greek for "wingless flight." Great name for a car with immense potential. But where was Aptera at the International Electric Vehicle Symposium last month? If entrepreneurial companies want to compete in the transporation sector where the Big 6 predominate, they have got to come out strong and make a lasting impression where it counts. From what I gather, Aptera has not yet made a public demonstration of their vehicle.

Nonetheless, I am excited about the prospects. If the Aptera is what it claims to be, I look forward to owning my own "wingless flight" vehicle in 2009.

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