Aptera is different. While other EV-makers aspire to become “the next Tesla” by building high-performance vehicles that look just like the ICE vehicles drivers are used to, Aptera is focusing on building the most efficient and greenest vehicles possible. Critics may say that consumers won’t buy an unusual three-wheeled aerodynamic vehicle (Aptera might dispute that—it claims to have over 35,000 reservations), but it’s undeniable that the company is pushing the limits of EV technology, which can only help the industry to advance.

Now the San Diego-based automaker has named Singapore-based Maxeon Solar Technologies as the supplier of its solar cells, and has begun production of its lightweight, automotive-grade curved solar panels.

Aptera’s “solar electric vehicle” will be equipped with almost 700 watts of integrated solar cells, and the company says it will be able to drive up to 40 miles per day on solar power alone. The vehicle is expected to have a total range of up to 1,000 miles, which would surely be the longest of any production vehicle to date.

Aptera has begun building panels in a 130,000-square-foot manufacturing facility, and says they are meeting the company’s targets for light transmittance, power output, lifespan and reliability.

“This strategic alliance between Maxeon and Aptera will take Aptera into the next phase of our growth,” said Aptera Co-CEO Chris Anthony. “With Maxeon, we are reinventing transportation—bringing the most efficient solar vehicle to market.”

“We provide the most efficient solar technology, and Aptera’s mission to pioneer solar mobility is the natural progression of this innovation,” said Maxeon interim CEO Mark Babcock. “The vehicle will feature the same extraordinary cells as those found in our high-efficiency solar panels powering homes and businesses.”

Source: Aptera