Windshield of the Aptera

[stefan72]

Hello,
Does anyone have any info on the type of windshield the Aptera Typ 1 is using? Will it be a Safety Glass Window (same as cars use) or more of a lightweight acrylic type window?

The acryllic type offers weight benefits but is not as safe in case of an accident. Are acrylic windshields allowed with 3-wheelers in the US?

Cheers

[onugs]

I think its federally mandated to have safety glass.

[c0mp13x]

This post confirms that the Typ-1 prototype uses laminated automotive safety glass on all windows. I have read other discussions about Aptera considering plastic for the side windows to save weight, but no final decision.

Steve Fambro comments in "Windows" paragraph (http://www.apteraforum.com/showthread.php?t=264)

:)

[Don]

This is classified as a motorcycle, yes? All motorcycles have the plastic windshields, none of them have glass. I would think that the only reason glass would be the best choice would be the resistance to scratches and damage which would distort visibility. Of course, glass does chip when hit with rocks. Which brings more questions - how much would a replacement windshield cost? Another - will arrangements be made for glass companies in locations other than Calif provide a replacement or will new windshields have to be ordered from the factory?

Those I know who have run flat tires say to not get them - the tires wear out much faster than standard tires. Also, replacement tires must be obtained at select locations, which can prove to be very inconvenient in more remote areas. From what I have read, the tires are the same as the ones on the Honda Insight, designed for less rolling resistance. Not sure if those are run flat. Does anyone on this board have any experience with the pressurized seal cans?

[Aptera 1103]

If the tires are the same, and they look to be from the pictures I have seen, as on my Insight, they are not run flat. Not only that they are the only tires you will find in the market that will fit the Aptera. I bought new tires last year for our Insight and only Firestone carried the size I needed. The are not bad tires at all, it just would be nice to have a choice.

Not sure about those cans, have not had a chance or need to use one.

[stefan72]

Thanks guys for the comments on the windshield question. I could well imagine that regulations will require automotive safety glass. They will be heavier but also more scratch resistant. On top of that it will be easier possible to get the Aptera registered in other countries with similar safety requirements.

If you have to replace it, it will probably cost a lot more than a normal car windshield. I think it all depends on how many Apteras will be built....

All niche car manufacturers fight with the same problem: Low number of cars sold = high spare part prices...

Cheers

[onugs]

As far as tires are concerned, I hope they use a standard type. We own a Pruis and it's tires cost bucks $$$! Toyota now offers a less expensive standard type tire due to its complaining customers.

[Matthijs]

I hope they can get Water-Repellent Windows on the Aptera. So water can glide right off! Less need of using the wipers and wiper motor. This saves energy. It rains allot where I live. :D

[GunnyD]

If you have to replace it, it will probably cost a lot more than a normal car windshield. I think it all depends on how many Apteras will be built....

All niche car manufacturers fight with the same problem: Low number of cars sold = high spare part prices...

Cheers

For a comparison for pricing and parts (body panels, windshield, drive components) check out this website for another electric three wheeler.

http://www.myersmotors.com/index.html

[davidrools]

The fact that it is an enclosed vehicle almost certainly necessitates glass windows at least for the windscreen and side windows. I'm more worried about rocks chipping or damaging the composite body/nose more than the windscreen. And at the angle it is, it's probably unlikely to do much damage since it will be a glancing blow at best.

I've use the emergency tire sealant (fix-a-flat) and it works great. I prefer a patch or plug if it's available, but nothing beats fix a flat for roadside emergencies...I prefer it over a compact spare for sure.

[KarenRei]

That's a good point. The Aptera has a pretty shallow slope on its windshield, which should reduce impact force (more deflection)