Powering cars with solar energy with Steve Fambro of Aptera Motors
Aug 3, 2023
39:55
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Steve Fambro, Co-CEO of Aptera Motors, discusses the potential of solar-powered cars and how Aptera's design could revolutionize the industry. They touch on the initial frustrations and inspiration behind the Aptera, their vision for the future of electric vehicles, and the incorporation of solar panels in their cars. The episode explores the advantages of solar energy, advancements in technology, and Aptera's plans for future releases.
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Quick takeaways
Aptera Motors is designing and manufacturing a plug-in electric hybrid car that can run up to 40 miles on a single solar-powered charge.
Aptera's novel design, focused on aerodynamics and lightweight composite materials, can potentially change the way we think about cars and reduce the need for frequent charging.
Deep dives
Summary of Podcast Episode: A Relaunch of Aptera Motors
Aptera Motors, a solar car company, is making a comeback with its solar-powered vehicles. The company, founded in 2005, produced a prototype in 2007, generating a lot of interest and investments. However, in 2011, due to funding challenges, the company shut down. In 2019, the founders, Steve Phambro and Chris Anthony, decided to relaunch Aptera. The new vehicles are designed to be highly efficient, with a focus on aerodynamics and lightweight composite materials. The cars come with built-in solar panels that can provide up to 40 miles of range per day, depending on weather conditions. The starting price of the vehicles is around $26,000, with options for different battery sizes and drivetrains. Aptera aims to offer solar mobility and freedom from the need for frequent charging. The first vehicles are expected to be delivered in early 2023.
The Unique Features of the Aptera Vehicles
The Aptera vehicles have a distinct design, with a carbon fiber body that is aerodynamic and lightweight, allowing for greater efficiency. The composite materials used in the body enable both reduced weight and improved strength. The vehicles come with rear-view mirrors, a regulatory requirement, but also have an electronic release for the doors. The two-seater vehicles offer ample cargo space, with around 1,000 liters available. The vehicles prioritize safety, meeting automotive standards with features such as airbags, seat belts, and structural strength.
The Solar Power Integration and Range
Aptera vehicles integrate solar panels into their design, enabling them to harness solar energy for charging. The solar panels can provide up to 40 miles of range per day, depending on weather conditions. The vehicles are designed to ensure aerodynamic efficiency and lightweight construction, allowing them to maximize the range provided by solar power. In areas with low sunlight or on overcast days, the vehicles can still store solar power, although the range will be reduced. However, even in less sunny regions, the vehicles can still contribute to charging and reduce the need for frequent plugging in.
The Future of Electric Vehicles and Aptera's Vision
Aptera aims to be at the forefront of the electric vehicle market, focusing on efficiency and solar-powered mobility. The company believes that increasing range is a key factor driving the adoption of electric vehicles. Aptera intends to lead in range capabilities by further enhancing efficiency, aerodynamics, and solar integration. The company plans to expand its product portfolio beyond the initial two-seater vehicle to include other models catering to different customer needs. Aptera envisions a future where electric vehicles can achieve over 1,000 miles of range on a single charge, driven by advancements in efficiency and design.
There’s a new car coming to market that will probably make its owners search out the sunniest spots in the parking lot...
Aptera Motors is designing and manufacturing this car: a plug-in electric hybrid that can run up to 40 miles on a single, solar-powered charge.
This week on How I Built This Lab, Steve Fambro shares how he and his co-CEO revived their once-defunct auto company thanks to the promise of solar energy. Plus, Steve’s take on why today’s vehicles require so much energy, and how Aptera’s novel design could change the way we think about cars forever...
This episode was produced by Kerry Thompson and edited by John Isabella, with music by Ramtin Arablouei. Our audio engineer was Neal Rauch.