Aptera displays solar-powered three-wheeler at Las Vegas SEMA Show

Drivers in Las Vegas paid an average of $5.26 for a gallon of regular gasoline on Thursday, November 5. That price sat well above the national average of $4.10, according to AAA data.

Aptera Motors is presenting a potential alternative at the SEMA Show at the Las Vegas Convention Center. The California-based company is showcasing a three-wheeled electric vehicle that uses solar panels integrated into its body.

The vehicle generates electricity from sunlight while also allowing owners to plug it in for charging. Aptera states the car can generate up to 40 miles of driving range per day under ideal solar conditions. The company estimates the vehicle can travel 400 miles on a full battery charge.

Aptera announced a manufacturing partnership with Launch Design in August. Launch Design is a Shanghai-based company specializing in automotive production. The agreement covers a production program valued at up to approximately $44 million. The funds will support manufacturing equipment, vehicle testing, initial production, and work toward larger-scale manufacturing.

The company plans to begin building its first 40 production vehicles by the end of 2026. Initial customer deliveries are targeted for early 2027. Aptera notes that this timeline depends on securing additional financing, meeting manufacturing milestones, and obtaining necessary regulatory approvals.

Solar energy generation varies based on sunlight exposure, parking conditions, and driving habits. Drivers who park in shaded areas or travel long distances may still need to charge the vehicle using an external power source.