A1phaGeek
06-13-2008, 05:25 PM
Original article: http://tech.blorge.com/Structure:%20/2008/06/12/apteras-three-wheeler-scoffs-at-chevy-volt-toyota-plug-in-hybrids/
Aptera’s three wheeler scoffs at Chevy Volt & Toyota plug-in hybrids
Aptera is making design concepts and upcoming vehicles like the Chevy Volt and Toyota’s Hybrid X look like old hat. After all, who needs four wheels? The three-wheeled Aptera Typ-1 hit 230 miles-per-gallon during testing and pushes its design statement with two hatchback doors and a sleek teardrop form factor.
It’s becoming obvious that consumers are interested in more than incremental fuel efficiency improvements, and companies like GM, Toyota and Nissan are scrambling to meet the demand with electric cars that use gasoline as a backup fuel source: plug-in hybrids.
Aptera throws conventional design to the wind with its two passenger, three-wheeled Typ-1. It clearly distinguishes itself from the muscled Chevy Volt, and if Toyota continues to use the gently-curved Prius shape, the distinction will be clear there as well.
Founder of Aptera Steve Fambro said that he aimed to create a vehicle that was “safe, comfortable, and more fuel-efficient than any other vehicle ever produced,” according to the Center for American Progress.
The Type-1 will come in two flavors, as an all-electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle. Right now Aptera is accepting reservations on its site.
From a marketability perspective, Aptera may have some ground to cover, as the design lends itself to questions surrounding stability and handling in tougher weather conditions. In its FAQ, Aptera indicates that the Typ-1 may not be appropriate for snow:
How will it work in the snow and cold climates, I live in the mountains in CA?
The Aptera will initially be designed for common lower altitude conditions in California. However, extensive testing for winter conditions is planned for the future.
Still, 230 miles-per-gallon is a compelling offer, and some people will enjoy the design statement as much or more than they enjoy saving the environment.
Aptera’s three wheeler scoffs at Chevy Volt & Toyota plug-in hybrids
Aptera is making design concepts and upcoming vehicles like the Chevy Volt and Toyota’s Hybrid X look like old hat. After all, who needs four wheels? The three-wheeled Aptera Typ-1 hit 230 miles-per-gallon during testing and pushes its design statement with two hatchback doors and a sleek teardrop form factor.
It’s becoming obvious that consumers are interested in more than incremental fuel efficiency improvements, and companies like GM, Toyota and Nissan are scrambling to meet the demand with electric cars that use gasoline as a backup fuel source: plug-in hybrids.
Aptera throws conventional design to the wind with its two passenger, three-wheeled Typ-1. It clearly distinguishes itself from the muscled Chevy Volt, and if Toyota continues to use the gently-curved Prius shape, the distinction will be clear there as well.
Founder of Aptera Steve Fambro said that he aimed to create a vehicle that was “safe, comfortable, and more fuel-efficient than any other vehicle ever produced,” according to the Center for American Progress.
The Type-1 will come in two flavors, as an all-electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle. Right now Aptera is accepting reservations on its site.
From a marketability perspective, Aptera may have some ground to cover, as the design lends itself to questions surrounding stability and handling in tougher weather conditions. In its FAQ, Aptera indicates that the Typ-1 may not be appropriate for snow:
How will it work in the snow and cold climates, I live in the mountains in CA?
The Aptera will initially be designed for common lower altitude conditions in California. However, extensive testing for winter conditions is planned for the future.
Still, 230 miles-per-gallon is a compelling offer, and some people will enjoy the design statement as much or more than they enjoy saving the environment.