"Aptera Rolls Out Pre-Production 2e, Confirms October Production for 3-Wheel EV" Green Car Advisor

Aptera Rolls Out Pre-Production 2e, Confirms October Production for 3-Wheel EV

Aptera Motors, which recently confirmed a 10-month delay in production of its three-wheeled electric vehicle, the 2e, said today that it has rolled out the first pre-production model (right) on schedule,

The white two-seat commuter vehicle features Aptera's unusual cycle-fendered design and looks a lot like the fuselage of a small airplane - sans wings and tail.

Aptera said that the battery-electric vehicle is "the first of a burgeoning fleet" of pre-production models that will be evaluated for performance, durability and fit and finish prior to start of retail production in October.

The company said the front-wheel drive Aptera 2e will use a lithium-ion battery pack, have a top speed of 90 miles an hour and a zero to 60 mph acceleration time of less than six seconds yet will achieve the equivalent of 200 miles per gallon and a range of 100 miles on a fully charged battery pack.

The company said that it has received more than 4,000 deposits for the 2e, which is expected to start at about $25,000 and could cost some buyers as high as $45,000 with various options.

Initial sales will be limited to California, with a national rollout planned for late 2010, the company said.

John O'Dell, Senior Editor