| Make
|
Accelerated
Composites |
| Model |
Aptera |
| Concept
year |
2006 |
| Production
year |
2008
? |
| Engine |
Diesel
+ electric |
Accelerated Composites LLC. based in Carlsbad, California,
is a small engineering company providing microelectronic
solutions and composites for private manned space programs.
By using their novel, low cost composite manufacturing
methods, Accelerated Composites intend to produce a 330
mpg, ultra-efficient, two seat, hybrid vehicle.
Called the Aptera, the concept is powered by a 12 hp diesel
engine and a 25 hp DC electric motor, running though a
automatic CVT transmission, all hidden by the Aptera's
slippery bodywork, which boasts the least drag of any
mass produced car.
Designed for maximum efficiency, the Aptera's aesthetics
have suffered slightly, but then again that's not what
this car's about. And while form was compromised, safety
was not. The Aptera features a driver protection "crash
box" similar to those found in Formula One race cars.
All in, the Aptera weighs just 385 kg (850 lbs) allowing
it to achieve a slow, but acceptable, 0-60 time of around
11 seconds and a limited top speed of 95 mph. Legally
the Aptera is not actually a car, the vehicle is registered
as a motorcycle. Unfortunately even thought the Aptera
was developed in California, the diesel engine fails to
meet the strict emissions
standards California has in place. Because of this the
diesel unit has been replaced with an economical gasoline
fueled engine for this market.
Related external links:
Aptera.com
|
|
