Aptera Banks On Solar Panels For Free EV Battery Charging

Aptera Motors, a US startup, is advancing the integration of body-embedded solar panels into electric vehicles (EVs) with the goal of enabling free battery charging through solar energy. Unlike many automakers that limit solar panels to roofs, Aptera aims to cover the entire vehicle with flexible, lightweight solar cells that extend battery range significantly. This approach could allow drivers to complete daily errands without needing to plug in, potentially offsetting the rising costs of electricity and justifying the upfront expense of the solar technology. Aptera’s design focuses on a highly aerodynamic, fully enclosed three-wheeled vehicle that combines efficiency with practicality for commuting and errands. The company, which rebooted in 2020 after initial struggles since its 2006 founding, is preparing to unveil its Launch Edition model on June 27. This production-ready EV will feature all expected systems, including climate control, infotainment, vision systems, and full solar integration. Aptera has partnered with Tianma, a leading automotive display supplier