Aptera Models Still in the Works, Aiming for 2014 Release
Aptera production is one year behind schedule according to its owner, but the automaker is hoping to have its gasoline-powered 2g model on sale by early 2014.
Zaptera USA purchased the assets of failed Aptera Motors last year and initiated a plan to have the vehicle’s aerodynamic, composite chassis manufactured in China while a California-based operation would assemble and install the electric powertrains. But delays in ramping up production in China has slowed progress, so company founder Richard Derringer has created a second company called Aptera USA to build the 2e entirely in America.
SEE ALSO: Aptera Gets a Second Chance, Plans on Delivering Vehicles in 2013
The first Aptera vehicle to hit the market however will be a gasoline-powered 2g with a target fuel economy of 100 mpg. After that, the original EV will follow that still has a goal of hitting 200 mpg. A hybrid model is also under consideration.
Aptera USA has ambitious plans of producing vehicles while simultaneously developing the assembly line in China. It is also considering a second manufacturing facility in California to start divisions manufacturing electric motorcycles and trucks.
[Source: Fox News]
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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As a long time supporter it looks like it's time to move on. I see no likelihood that this car will ever be produced, to bad I always stood up to the doubters but there is no chance that this is the truth.
2014 could finally be the time. They will have a hard time beating the price of a 100% electric Smart-ED that can also go 100 miles and has more room. They are only about $25K before incentives!