Aptera Motors is making history by bringing the first fuel-free car to America. Aptera’s innovative move not only signifies a shift in vehicle technology but also focuses on what driving green means. It was at the 2025 CES in Las Vegas that Aptera (a California-based startup) unveiled its new solar-powered electric vehicle, a three-wheeled and sleek machine that requires only one thing to enable it to run on roads daily.
New Aptera motor: Designed with practicality in mind
While the alternate power source is what sets Aptera’s vehicle apart, its radical aerodynamic shape also needs to be considered as one of its most unique features. Aptera’s motor, developed in partnership with iconic Italian design house Pininfarina, has led to the car being hailed as one of Europe’s premier wind tunnels in Turin. As such, the Aptera claims to offer one of the lowest drag coefficients of any passenger vehicle in the world. No confirmation has been provided of the exact number, however, previous versions had drag coefficients as low as 0.13 in comparison to 0.23 for Tesla’s Model 3.
Having a low drag design allows the vehicle to use far less energy to move. When paired up with its lightweight body and three-wheeled layout, the vehicle can achieve a high range of performance that even with a smaller battery. Being built for the real world, the Aptera is production-ready, however, it is highly reminiscent of something from a movie.
No plug required, 700 W of solar power does the job
This fuel-free car works due to the network of 700 watts of solar panels integrated into the car’s curved surface. With these cells alone, 40 miles of range per day is offered directly from the sunlight. Therefore, drivers who travel for shorter distances may never have to plug in their vehicles.
Drivers on longer journeys can experience approximately 400 miles of range on a fully charged battery. Yes, the Aptera can compete with some of the best electric vehicles, but unlike EVs that rely on charging, this vehicle promises mobility that doesn’t rely on the grid.
Competition may be in store for Aptera, as thus far, Toyota as well as Mercedes-Benz are also considering the solar-roof options. Aptera, however, is focused on placing its bet on the sun whilst being bold and confident in stating that America has the sun, even though Japan has hydrogen.
Moving forward with development despite some sun setbacks
While it may sound all rosy for Aptera, the journey that Aptera faced is anything but roses and sunshine. While the company was initially founded during the mid-2000s, the company shut its doors in 2011 after being unable to secure funding from the U.S. Department of Energy. Aptera’s rise from the ashes tells a tale of a company driven by its willpower to promote renewable energy.
The company, working alongside Pininfarina, is stepping away from its focus on design aesthetics and showcasing a solid commitment to global viability and commitment. While Aptera’s devotion to the first-ever solar car is clear, the problem is that a large sum of capital is required to keep these vehicles on the road. If Aptera can overcome all regulatory as well as financial barriers, these types of three-wheeled vehicles could be rolling off the assembly lines and into driveways across America.
At present, it is difficult to envision a vehicle that is off the grid solely relying on the energy from the sun. Although a rather futuristic concept, the Aptera is introducing to the masses a new reality where sunlight is the only requirement should you wish to be moving and on the go. Aptera is pulling no stops in terms of introducing to the world the future of clean driving.
