Aptera Newsletter

[MegaAutoBit]

I was wondering, has anyone received a newsletter from Aptera? I signed up some time ago and haven’t received an issue yet. Is this something they do quarterly, or monthly?

[KarenRei]

I haven't gotten one either. But hey, they're only 15 people, and they're busy getting ready for crash testing, so I'll forgive them ;)

[Yanquetino]

I signed up for Aptera's "newsletter" on December 1. This was their reply:

We appreciate you stopping by aptera.com.
Thank you for joining our mailing list. Look for exciting updates from us soon!

Thanks,
Aptera Motors
http://www.aptera.com

They must define the word "soon" very differently, because I have yet to see even one "exciting update." :(

At first I figured that Aptera deserved a holiday break, but now --like you-- I am starting to wonder. Should we assume that "no news is good news"? Or just the opposite?

In comparison, I signed up for Zenn's "newsletters" two days before Christmas, and have received three messages from Ian Clifford so far. (You've gotta hand it to those Canadians: they are truly nice, open, friendly, funny people. :) If the Zenn were highway capable, I'd buy one right now, just because Ian deserves the sale!)

Then again, I likewise registered for updates from Miles Automotive --and haven't heard squat. Hmmmm.

[Aptera 1103]

I too am a bit frustrated by the lack of communication. I hope it is due to their desire to get the car in production and a lack of people to play the public relations game. I want to be optimistic, really I do. Aptera has gone a long way to earn my confidence in their product without ever giving me a chance to even touch a car. Ford or GM never did that.

But now that they have some of my money a little activity on the communication front to those with reservations would go a long way to keep me happy. Anyone seen the movie "Tucker"? Until we see this car in production I think we are all a little nervous.

[MegaAutoBit]

"Tucker"? Until we see this car in production I think we are all a little nervous.

One of my all time favorite movies.

[MegaAutoBit]

The only reason I brought this up was because I found a comment left on Aptera’s Myspace page giving them props on their sexy news letter.

I would have to agree that Aptera is lacking in the PR department. When I placed my order I expected to get an official welcome letter, or thank you for your order letter with a copy of the last newsletter, but like most of you, all I received was a computer generated email from their server.

[Aptera 1103]

Agreed. All we have at this point is our reservation number. Steve are you listening??

[Aptera 1103]

Here is a copy of an email I got today from Aptera responding to the concerns of this thread:

Hello,

Thanks again for your pre-order! Production is on track to begin in the fourth quarter of this year. Based on current production estimates, we will fill all current orders by the late summer of 2009. I am currently unable to provide a more specific time, but we will give approximate build dates in the future.

In the upcoming months, the MyAptera.com owners page will be available. On this page, you will be able to modify your options/features including model type (Typ-1e or Typ-1h). Nothing is final until you receive your purchase agreement about a month prior to obtaining your vehicle.

Kind regards,

Emily Mizutani
Aptera


Good to know they are listening. Can't wait to start seeing our owners page.

[Yanquetino]

Those of us who can't reserve an Aptera yet appreciate whatever news you lucky ones can pass along. It sounds like they are still sticking to their plan. I wish they'd said more about the crash tests, however. And I hope that they will soon fill in some of the blanks on their web page. I would really like to know more of the specs. Just gotta be patient, I suppose. :rolleyes:

[KarenRei]

In an article from a month or so ago, I remember reading that crash tests would begin "in a couple months". I was left with the impression that they'd start in March or so. Right now, they should be building the models for crash testing. And they've already been doing crash tests on the computer for a while.

[Thirdeye]

Ditto, just the automated return email, even after one or two follow up emails.

I don't know about any of you, but I'd rather have a company that focuses on delivering the best possible product they can produce on time instead of one that has great PR and returns fabulous emails, but can't deliver the goods.

One thing I've liked about Aptera so far is that they aren't into the frequent press announcements like some of the other manufacturers out there. Since they are a very small company they need to stay focused on the product, not the hype, if they want to have any chance of succeeding.

My impression of Steve F. from seeing him in the videos is that he is an engineer with a vision and as such he will make sure that the design and production will be done properly and efficiently. Verily, if the product does not live up to expectations then no amount of fabulous PR will sustain this company in the long run.

[KarenRei]

Hey -- after you registered, how long did it take you all to get an email confirming the registration?

[Thirdeye]

If memory serves it was just a day or two.

[MegaAutoBit]

Hey -- after you registered, how long did it take you all to get an email confirming the registration?

It was minutes for me.

[palmer_md]

When I signed up I got an immediate response to the signup. Then about 2 days later I got a response with the slot number. After not hearing anything from Aptera I sent an inquiry about my slot position and how it might be effected if I changed from Hybrid to Electric model and this was the response the next day. Based on this is seems they are going to start sending updates, and I was very pleased with their response timeliness and they answered my questions to the best of their ability at this time.

Mike


--------------------- message from Aptera-----------------------------


Hello,

I apologize for the lack of contact. We realize that those with reservations need to get more updates and are administering a plan of action.

In the upcoming months, the MyAptera.com owners page will be available. On this page, you will get to personalize your Aptera by choosing your options/features. This page will also provide you with an approximate build date in the future. I am currently unable to say how changing your option may change your place in line. Production is slated to start in the fourth quarter of this year. Based on current production estimates, you should receive your vehicle by summer of 2009.

Thanks,
Emily Mizutani
Aptera

[Pegasus]

Hi all.

I've been signed up since before the initial "interest gauge" reservation round (when anyone in the country could do it.)

The most recent newsletter they sent was on 10/31/2007 which initially broke the news that they'd be marketing in SoCal first, NoCal next, then elsewhere.

There's more hard data at the Popular Mechanics article (not just the video) http://www.popularmechanics.com/automotive/new_cars/4237853.html
Be sure to read the text on all 11 pages/photos.

[MegaAutoBit]

The most recent newsletter they sent was on 10/31/2007 which initially broke the news that they'd be marketing in SoCal first, NoCal next, then elsewhere.



Thank you, this thread has gone a little sideways in its discussion.

[qpham63]

I was respond to an RFQ (request for quote) for production tooling for some of parts for the Aptera.

I was excited just to look at the Aptera's picture and reading up on it. I have been building composite hardware for 20 years starting out in SD after doing time at SDSU.

I decided I had to take a drive down from Lodi CA to Carlsbad to visit the plant to submit my proposal in person.

Needless to say, I reserved myself the hybrid and my number is 1267. I have been cruising the internet getting as much info as I can.

I help built HPVs and race them in college and always knew after my first year that aerodynamic and light weight rules. My son and I always talked about a father/son project to build an Aptera like although I admit we would never be able to get to the level of the Aptera.

I am so glad that I got to got to inspect an Aptera up close and sit in one. It is nice and roomy. my 5'6" did not fill the driver sit. I had room behind the seat and my feet did not reached the pedals. It reminds me of the interior of my early 70s Porche 914. It feels roomier than the Miyata.

There is material and process difference but the way the Aptera is built, it reminds me of the A500, an all composite fuselage aircraft that will soon have a jet version of a similar aircraft. You can check them out at http://adamaircraft.com/.

The fit and finish of the Aptera is very nice.

Well I may or may not be able to land a contract working on the Aptera in some way but I will get mine.

I believe in the design approach of this car enough to work on it for no cash but rather just shares of their stock. I wish I was still in San Diego, I would undoubtedly try to come to work for them.

I have worked on the MESSENGER, DEEP IMPACT, IRRIDIUM, SPACE STATION, SPACE SHUTLE (I am taking my wife and son this August to Florida to watch the launch where for the first time a large composite pallet system SLIC short for Super Light Weight Interchangeable Carrier is going to be on board), Composite Armor for the CRUSADER and on the ABL Airborne Laser and the ATL Airborne Tactical Laser but here I am envious of the Aptera Engineers because they work on what I see as the coolest project active today.

This is not even a case of the grass is always greener on the other side either. Well God Speed to them. I just hope I get to somehow be part of the team or part of their supply chain.

[Chupacabra]

Since they aren't really putting out any news letters, maybe you all can post any email replies with additional information not already available on their web site. Here's mine:

---


Hello,



Thank you for your enthusiasm and support!



In this case, I would suggest the “Plug-in Series Hybrid” option. This Aptera is also powered by an electric drive train but it is assisted by a fuel efficient gasoline powered generator which stretches your range significantly. This way, if you do not have access to an outlet, then the generator will charge your batteries. In typical driving you may achieve over 300 miles per gallon and you will have range far beyond any passenger vehicle available today.

We will have more detailed information available closer to production.



If you reserve a vehicle, the $500 deposit is fully refundable by request at anytime prior to a purchase agreement. The deposit is held in our Wells Fargo escrow account until the vehicle is delivered.



Please sign up for our newsletter through the website (if you haven’t already) to stay updated on our plans and progress as well as checking our website!



Best regards,



Emily Mizutani

Aptera

[KarenRei]

Off topic, but in Japanese, "Mizutani" means "water valley", "valley river", something like that :) I'd have to see the characters to be certain.

[IanO]

I was respond to an RFQ (request for quote) for production tooling for some of parts for the Aptera.

I was excited just to look at the Aptera's picture and reading up on it. I have been building composite hardware for 20 years starting out in SD after doing time at SDSU.

...

I have worked on the MESSENGER, DEEP IMPACT, IRRIDIUM, SPACE STATION, SPACE SHUTLE (I am taking my wife and son this August to Florida to watch the launch where for the first time a large composite pallet system SLIC short for Super Light Weight Interchangeable Carrier is going to be on board), Composite Armor for the CRUSADER and on the ABL Airborne Laser and the ATL Airborne Tactical Laser but here I am envious of the Aptera Engineers because they work on what I see as the coolest project active today.

Welcome! It is really cool and encouraging to see an outside engineer who perceives the Aptera design at a deeper level also get excited over the possibilities.

There is material and process difference but the way the Aptera is built, it reminds me of the A500, an all composite fuselage aircraft that will soon have a jet version of a similar aircraft. You can check them out at http://adamaircraft.com/.

I hope that is where the comparison ends. Unfortunately, Adam Aircraft closed their doors just last week after failing to acquire enough venture capital to meet their debts. Here's hoping Aptera is more successful!

[Aptera860]

I was at the current location in Carlsbad a month ago and they are moving soon to much larger facilities. I doubt there will be a newsletter soon as not much to report.

[joshuarat wait list #1349]

Received my first (THE first?) today!

[Matthijs]

http://www.aptera.com/newsletter032508/

:D

[n_dawg]

There were actually 4 editions of the Aptera Newsletter before that. I only got on-board to see the second one.

Second edition: 8/28/07
Third edition: 9/7/07
Fourth edition: 9/27/07

Basically it contains photos of the construction and unveiling of the Mk-1, their first production prototype. I would upload them but for the size limitations on the board.

[AT802]

I got on early enough to get the first one ( called vignette first edition in acrobat reader format) it included an aptera body apparently in some sort of jig . Didn't think of it before but it is gold unpainted ,fiberglass?Another white almost finished prototype in background. The second and third pics showed board rooms work tables in other words nothing of interest. The fourth picture showed ("a part is born") looks to be some type of bracket maybe for the drive train or the front wheels. Only real interest was the unit in the jig.

[Hybrid762]

Below is a letter I received on 22Apr08 regarding my reservation. I am #762 (hybrid).
********************************
Hello,

Thanks again for reserving an Aptera Typ-1!

I apologize. Sometimes the newsletters get caught in a filter since they are sent from an automatic system. Production is on track to begin in the fourth quarter of this year. Based on planned production estimates, we will fill your order in 2009. Unfortunately, I am unable to provide a more specific date at this time, but we will grant approximate build dates in the future. Here is the link to our past newsletter: http://www.aptera.com/newsletter032508/

We appreciate your order and look forward to providing you with more updates as we near production.

Kind regards,

emily mizutani | aptera
client relations
carlsbad, ca 92010

[Apteratude]

Waiting for more official news from Aptera. It's been nearly a month and a half. Getting antsy as I'm sure the rest of you are. I've worked in a business where we came out with a new motorcycle product that was in high demand, and we were so buried with emails, phone calls, and sales that we had no chance to really post anything online. Once the clock rolled around to 5/6 o' clock everyday...we just wanted to go home. So, while I understand, I'm still eagerly awaiting the latest from Aptera. :) :character0016: :cool0008:

[ciege]

Just received the letter from Aptera stating their intention to split the 'hybrid' 'all-eletric' on July 31st..................Good News.

[gkra]

Just received the letter from Aptera stating their intention to split the 'hybrid' 'all-eletric' on July 31st..................Good News.

Posted here (http://apteraforum.com/showthread.php?t=1080).

[Don]

Back in Jan. of this year, Aptera stated they would have a newsletter out soon. I had previously registered with them, but to date, have never received any communique from them. Has anyone been sent a newsletter ? Not getting overly thrilled here with unkept promises. Hope this doesn't reflect the future of promised manufacturing.

[aptera1213]

all the newsletters are here (http://www.apteraforum.com/showthread.php?t=921)

it has been awhile...i am hoping for one asap


the last one was 5/1/08

at that time i was hoping they would come monthly...but it has been 3 months


timeline of newsletters:

1st--8/2/07
2nd--10/18/07
3rd--10/31/07 (very quick, but that was because this was the newsletter where they cancelled out of state deposit)
4th--03/025/08 (long break in newsletters)
5th--05/01/08 (fairly quick...and it looked like it was to be a trend...but it seems we're in a newsletter lull)

[KarenRei]

They're moving into their production facility and doing the final design work; I'm not surprised it's been a bit. I'd think they'd want to have finished at least one of those tasks before they send a new newsletter.

Update: Huh... just noticed this from an early newsletter:

"Since there is much less development and deployment risk in the all-electric model, we now believe we'll be able to deliver an all-electric model much sooner (emphasis mine) than the series hybrid"

Funny that people were still caught off guard.

[Ricky Ray]

:aptera: Ok does anyone have an actual start DAY Date of production and any idea how many per month they may actually pump out? :jumping0001:

[ciege]

your answers are no and no.................production is to begin late '09.
Numbers produced will be very slow to start and ramping up to ???

No one has an answer to that at this point, it's all speculation

[Spank Daddy]

You mean late '08, right?

[ciege]

ooppps..............

[Mzbhavn]

Ok, but where is the update. I hate the feeling of being out of the circle. If we are a family and put trust in it, communicate. Communication even if it is a small update, that is good. Hey, throw us some pics of the autobody smashing jig. Or, candid shots of fun at work. I don't care just let us know you guys are still alive.

[Mzbhavn]

oooh 27 posts only thee more to go.... oops 2 more :)

[iwannaptera]

oooh 27 posts only thee more to go.... oops 2 more :)


According to the rumors, we should be getting a newsletter in 1 to 2 weeks from now.

[esmith]

When it comes to Aptera, rumors seem to be false most of the time.

[iwannaptera]

When it comes to Aptera, rumors seem to be false most of the time.

Uhhmmm. Not sure what you mean about that. Perhaps I am in the minority (yet again), but it seems to me that Aptera has done a pretty good job of keeping us up to date. Even in comparison to say for example Tesla, things seem to be moving along quite well. Oh, so I must admit that sometimes our information seems to be coming from pictures found on the net, or announced and unannounced visits from members of our community, but the fact remains that information is coming out. I guess we will see if we get a newsletter in the next two weeks. If not, then I might have to start agreeing with you.:character0012: