We got some measurements and Aptera isn't 88 inches wide

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[@ApteraOwnersClub]

Everyone concerned about the wheel pants clearance don't worry. I have a video of an interview with Charles the engineer in charge of wheel pants describing their strategy and in my opinion it's genius

[@Disciple_Jon]

Excited to watch it!

[@ZadesLegacy]

Wow, you beat me to it. I was about to say 3in is in no way good enough clearance where I live. But I can't wait to see that interview!

[@lsh3rd]

It would be nice to know not just the height, but the distance from where the tire contacts the road to the front/rear of the cover. I've got a very steep approach angle with my driveway, but I'm optimistic that they've accounted for it. 85-86" wide vs. 88" is giong to make a huge difference with an 8' wide garage opening.

[@ddessert6]

@@lsh3rd 85-86" makes transporting much easier. Having driven large trucks, you get use to 88 - 96+ inches wide. You just need to be mindful. Of course that is in the US. Our EU friends will definitely disagree with me as some that big would be a major challenge.

[@lsh3rd]

@@ddessert6 I think they will inevitably need to make a smaller world car. My wife and I are considering retiring in Japan (where she is from), 85" wide would never work there, but that's 15 years down the road...

[@JasonMorrisJMo]

Since the Aptera team looks at the comments....here's my idea. Since the full-solar version of the Aptera doesn't have a back windshield (and therefore no need for a rear-view mirror), can the back-up camera be used in combination with the side mirror cameras in one big wrap around view where the side mirror camera monitors are? Seems like an archaic way of doing it to have that rear visual in two different spots since we're using cameras anyway. Simply put the back-up camera view in the middle of the other two. That would be amazing (and safer) to have ONE singular place to get a wrap around view from behind right under the wonderful views from the windshield in front. So the camera view above the steering yoke would be something like [Left Mirror][Backup Camera][Right Mirror]. Then you could even get rid of the rear view mirror and have more windshield. Does that make sense?

[@ApteraOwnersClub]

i like it!

[@schtinerbock4570]

Genius. I didn't even think of that. Makes perfect sense.

[@peterjordan3135]

Reads like a good idea to me. It would be nice to look at the display in front of the yoke and see, let's say, a rear view encompassing about 200 degrees so that we don't have to take our eyes off the road to see if someone is right next to us or in our blind spot. To me this should be the implementation whether there is a standard positioned rear view mirror/device or not, due to what i believe would be superior safety benefits. From what I've gathered from various sources on the net, yea, I know, it's all suspect, there are regulatory requirements that mirrors be installed, but, even if still required and installed, they would probably fall into disuse if the yoke screens provide an experience that is perceived to be safer by the driver.

[@TitusvRijn]

It’s probably pricier but obviously for a panoramic view those now two screens above the yoke should be replaced with one wide screen like you often see in other cars.

[@dr.jerrywolfe1289]

Forward thinking 🧐 👍🌞They can make it happen! Software update!

[@hammertlme]

Dude I was just saying today that everything about Aptera is an absolute dream except for the 88" width, and now you come with this great info. 3 inches less width is actually kind of alot when it comes to traffic lanes, that'll give us a bit more leeway. I imagine the side view mirrors still don't stick out as far as the wheel pants either. Love it.

[@BMore710]

I really appreciate you going above and beyond grabbing as much data as you could. I was there Saturday and only focused on taking it all in. Thank you for all of your effort!

[@deanmcmanis9398]

Thanks for doing the measurements and interviews. 3" narrower is good news for those people worrying about the width. One point that people usually miss is that most vehicle width measurements do not include side view mirrors. Also many photo shoots and car shows have the vehicles (especially concepts) lowered, for a cooler visual effect. Plus the wheels sink in on carpet or grass.

[@skylerlehmkuhl135]

Yeah, this is great news for my hopes of being able to put it on a trailer.

[@maudessen573]

Steve, thank you so much for taking these measurements. They really help.

[@matthewhuszarik4173]

Ground clearance is an issue for any areas that have pot holes, which is almost all of America. Also the dreaded speed bumps and street drainage troughs. I would like at least 6”-8” of clearance to all non-tire surfaces. As measured the 3” ground clearance would be less than almost any production vehicle and it would be a real hindrance in real world driving.

[@juliahello6673]

If it’s for aerodynamics can they put a cheap, easy to replace rubber band on the bottom so we can replace it cheaply? It would also deform instead of crack.

[@marcbee1234]

@@juliahello6673 yes!

[@roguedog98]

Thanks for the video. After watching video, I too was concerned about clearance. Potholes, speed bumps, and such. It looks like those wheel pants are gonna take a beating. I'm also concerned about car washes and the width.

[@johnnyzee383]

Absolutely correct as I commented above. The comment below ( They have been driving all over, they are not daft) is typical of people who are hypnotized by this car. When designing anything, you have to take into consideration the WORST case scenarios, and this is why no other mass produced car has clearances this low!

[@matthewhuszarik4173]

@@johnnyzee383 There are a few high performance cars with clearance that low or close to it. You can look them up easily, but they are all high performance cars that people are willing to tolerate this issue. For a mass market vehicles intended only for on road use ground clearances range from about 120mm to 175mm or 4.7” to 6.9” vehicles intended for some off road use range from 200mm to 400mm or 7.9” to 15.7”. So I would hope they have at least 5”-6” for the road only versions and At least 6”-8” for the off road version.

[@91kitt]

I was there Saturday and wish I could have got that close to the Aptera. It was swamped 😆 All other booths didn't have anyone like Apteras. Hopefully they will have more opportunities to see and sit in events. I have a reservation and can't wait for the day I pick mine up 🙂

[@garydmercer]

I really wish Aptera would supply interior sizes for us large people. Seat height, seat width. Legroom, Headroom, etc. I'm' six foot 5 inches tall and put an order in for the Aptera. I really hope my head isn't touch the ceiling. Can the seat be put back further for us tall guys? 38 inches from seat to ceiling is not very much. I think my head will hit the ceiling. Very disappointing. They couldn't get another 2 inches? or have an adjustment on the seat to lower it for us taller people, so our heads don't hit the ceiling? You won't sell many of these in Nordic countries or Germany where average heights are taller or the midwest America. Looks like the seat is jammed all the way to the back of the cargo area, so it can't be adjusted more reclined? That is what I used to do to allow me to ride in smaller cars.

[@n.brucenelson5920]

Chris Anthony is 6'4" and we have seen video of taller people in the gamma. I think you will be fine.

[@michaelbramel5771]

In comment elsewhere somebody who is 6' 7" said he had a problem sitting in the alpha Noir, but found this gamma to be roomy enough for him. I'm sure you'll want to test drive, but this sounds encouraging for tall folk.

[@ddessert6]

Steve, great video and information. It is also great that Aptera is reading our comments & concerns. I am looking forward to hearing some of the answers I had to the questions previously posted. You might want to post some links to the reveal to the Ambassadors on Friday. I understand that you were not able to attend that but might be able to share the links. The information on how the vehicle is going to be assembled was very informative. Once production starts to roll, it looks as if they could easily make 100 vehicles in short order. There might be some sort pauses while issues get worked out but it is fantastic that they are animating the process beforehand so they can plan in advance for issues and deal with them much easier. Back in the 90s my brother worked with and taught AutoDesk's 3D Studio to animate various assembly lines and distribution centers. It made a huge difference back then and I can only imagine the updates in the last 25 years.

[@ubaldinovega3555]

I really like the way you go for little details, thank you for the information you share with us

[@humphreybradley3060]

For me & the other Brit/EU customers, the width is critical! Our standard car parking space dimensions are 2.4m x 4.8m, so to hear that the width 2.1m. Makes me happy!

[@ASkippingRock]

I am also worried about the ride height so pre-ordered with the off-road option. It helps with the gravel roads going to trailheads. I am worried about snow getting packed into those wheel covers. Edit: The wheels do contain the hub motors so they might produce enough heat to stay clear. Just speculation.

[@schtinerbock4570]

I'd like to see what the off road package looks like. A thousand bucks is kind of a lot. Seems like they're making the standard ones so low as to persuade people to pony up the extra grand.

[@beachbeemer]

Take them off.

[@jamesg6491]

Same here. I pre ordered the ORK beforehand. Even the supposedly 5" clearance is a no go for my real world driving. I measured the front bumper air dam clearance of my current ride at 7", and it just about clears everything below it.

[@ImBooX2]

I have asked about snow getting packed in the wheel pants and got no answer yet but somebody assuming there would be no issue. It has been an issue on every car I have had in 51 years. Perhaps they could add a heater feature, just warm enough to not allow it to cling to the inside of the pants may be good.

[@johnb7430]

@@ImBooX2 agreed! Living in the frozen northlands, road slush gets packed in wheel wells and freezes harder than woodpecker lips overnight when Temps drop well below zero F. It's only a "problem " for the upper half of the country, all of Canada and Northern Europe... why dont i trust a souther California company full of people that never experienced that weather?

[@alansturt5211]

Well done Steve - thanks for getting some dimensions. I am in Michigan - not unusual to get several 4" and 6" snow falls here in the winter - would be great to have a winter height setting for the wheel pants.

[@peterjorgensen3]

Interesting. Chris A. said it wouldn't be 88 a while back, they were trying to trim a few inches off. 85 inches is a great width. I'm definitely getting the Offroad kit... I want to go anywhere a Subaru Crosstrek can go.

[@wesman9274]

I've definitally been spoiled by the Subi's we've had over the years. They just eat everything up. They might need some steering adjustments after hitting a massive hole, but nothing has ever stopped us mid trip.

[@alfnoakes392]

That may be a tad ambitious ... and possibly expensive. I'd let others try it first ... 😐

[@peterjorgensen3]

@@alfnoakes392 Well, Pablo Ucar has ambitions to offroad it too. We'll have to see what he comes up with the internal team. Otherwise, I guess we'll have to see what we can come up with if it's no quite what we need! Right to repair FTW!

[@envirolambert]

Putting this as its own comment (from an embedded reply): It would be cool if there were an ability to have various covers, able to be switched out as accessories. Higher ones for winter, snow, etc. The full covers for summer, long road trips. Or like the black plastic that sits as trim on most trucks, replaceable “trim” at the base of the covers (vs the full material all the way to the edge) that could be removed, snapped back on, or replaced if damaged. Especially for their AWD model. @aptera, I hope you’re seeing this! 👍

[@charangohabsburg1]

You are doing an awsome job and big favor to all who could not be there Steve, thank you so much!

[@ApteraOwnersClub]

You are very welcome

[@davidparsons5513]

Well, better than 88", but still too wide for my current trailer. The 3" trailing edge on the wheel skirt still bothers me. If you go over a speed bump, the tire may be rolling down off the bump slope, but the tail of the skirt will still be over the top of the bump. And dont forget that these measurements were unladen, no weight in the Aptera. It can only go down loaded. Looking forward to a further explanation. Thanx, Steve.

[@davidparsons5513]

@Joe Schmoe Agree with front skirts, but the back skirt will move up and down with travel. That's been seen in videos driving around the plant. I have a Slingshot and the suspension is very similar. I've had to change out the coil-over spring in the rear to compensate for a trailer.

[@robertkirchner7981]

An observant viewer of the factory tour videos noted on the community discussion pages on the Aptera website that the trailing edge of the inboard wheel pant gets REALLY close to the ground during a turn. That's a real concern for me. I'd like to be able to steer in reverse on uneven terrain.

[@charangohabsburg1]

I don't think that will remain like this. I totally trust in the Aptera team to do the right thing, and missing out on the opportunity of checking out the limits with prototypes would be a mistake.

[@gmy33]

@@charangohabsburg1 indeed they need propper management there othereise it will be a mess .. so they will !!! There s too much riding on it

[@david.e.h.]

Thanks for sharing! You do such a great job getting up in there and finding things out!

[@ApteraOwnersClub]

Great to meet you David. It was a pleasure!

[@WS0TA]

Rescue points: (in my opinion) every vehicle needs actual rescue points fore and aft. I have seen too many new vehicles without such, stuck in a snow drift where folks try to attach and pull them out with catastrophic results. I would think real rescue points could be done inside the frunk, for example. yoke steering wheel: I have already directly offered this idea, there could easily be sockets imbedded in the top of each side of the steering, this with plugs that make them essentially invisible. Pull the plugs, insert the top half of a steering wheel when desired. On longer highway drives, longer meaning even an hour, I find that I sort of hang my hands at the traditional 10-and-2 positions on the steering wheel. Seems such a simple answer to whether to have a race-car like yoke or a traditional steering wheel at the expense of visually interfering with the side view screens.

[@ddessert6]

Good point on the rescue points. When the Aptera needs to be put on a flatbed, where is the pull points? Putting a hook around the underside of the control arm will likely do damage to the covering and could damage the control arm as well. When the Aptera is transported to our delivery locations, how is it going to be secured? Lots of cars are secured by the wheels. That could be done and the pants put in the trunk as it would be a real challenge to put a wheel harness on with the pants. The only way I can imagine the Aptera being transported is inside a 2 deck trailer. This will be a challenge for rail or standard car carriers with the rear wheel and the carriers having an open center area.

[@jamesmezzenga3211]

Its good to hear that the channel has the attention of some of the Aptera crew. I devour every thing I can about the car on the internet including KZbin. After Sandy Monroe's glowing introduction about the car I invested [again] in the latest round. I respect his opinion and knowing his company worked with Aptera is in my mind the gold standard. Your breakdown of the battery design was very enlightening. I have a question I hope someone can answer but let me preface by saying this. I work from home and I am getting the full solar package. When my wife's Rav4 Hybrid will be sold in a few years we will buy her an EV. Our driveway is in the sunshine in Virginia. I want to know if I trickle charge her EV from the Aptera ?? (I only drive 1500 miles a year so I will have a lot of extra juice to spare).

[@ApteraOwnersClub]

unknown. V2L or V2H for the Aptera has not been confirmed or finalized.

[@johnb7430]

@@ApteraOwnersClub i thought they said it would have V2H at the event?

[@1978rayking]

So what do we take off to get the jack up points , what about a tow point just wondering.

[@mk1st]

It’s fascinating to watch this come to development. You get to be aware of how many tiny little details are necessary to get a car to production.

[@Soothsayer210]

3 inches front wheel covers clearance is definitely a bit too low for me, glad i booked the off roader version. I wonder what would be the clarences of that would be. Length 65 inches - that is like 5 feet, 5 inches, thought it would be a bit short for sleeping in that.

[@SimonYpsilon]

That is why he mentioned that you can fold the seats forward to get the 7 feet

[@Soothsayer210]

@@SimonYpsilon I don't think that the front seats are fully foldable. Would have loved to see that as well.

[@JeppeRito]

@@Soothsayer210 They don't fold flat but you can definitely fold them quite a bit and move them forward

[@SimonYpsilon]

@@JeppeRito exactly

[@sebir.584]

I think it is great that the engineers are watching the videos and reading comments.

[@guyskeer5411]

Steve - Your labors are Really a Help for Me to "Hang In There" on Planning a Purchase. I am Certain that I am Not the Only One who Owes You!! Big Thanks! Hope to Meet You Someday/Somehow.

[@cschmidtwetekam]

Would be nice if that trunk had some protection around the lip, when sliding things in and out. Maybe even a way to remove the glass, to transport XL items.

[@mk1st]

Yay, plywood😊

[@randynovick7972]

I'm going to have to drive mine in the snow from time to time. All those covers look like excellent traps for snow, or ready and waiting to get ripped clean off the vehicle by accumulated ice. It's a good thing that I'm at the end of the production queue, I guess? Still, very nice to see things coming together.

[@n.brucenelson5920]

Randy, I live in Iowa, and will have early experience in snow to report on. From what I have been able to learn, I am not too worried, but we will see.

[@calebwoods9358]

This sounds dumb but wouldn't the heat from the wheel motor help prevent the snow build up?

[@n.brucenelson5920]

@@calebwoods9358 I have thought that too, but it takes a lot of heat to melt ice, and the motors may just be too efficient to do a good job of that? I am taking a wait and see attitude on this.

[@envirolambert]

It would be cool if there were an ability to have various covers, able to be switched out as accessories. Higher ones for winter, snow, etc. The full covers for summer, long road trips. Or like the black plastic that sits as trim on most trucks, replaceable “trim” at the base of the covers (vs the full material all the way to the edge) that could be removed, snapped back on, or replaced if damaged. Especially for their AWD model. @aptera, I hope you’re seeing this! 👍

[@Disciple_Jon]

Great video! Very helpful to see the dimensions. Can't wait to see what they choose for production materials on the center console. Most of my concerns have been eased at this point. I still wish they would place some priority on V2H. I also wish they'd offer a wheel option... but I'll live. Im really interested to see what the 3rd seat package entails because if it is doable, its an option that I need!

[@maudessen573]

Thanks. This is a real issue when parallel parking. What counts when parking on the right side of the street, for example, is the the distance from front of the left wheelpant to the back of the right wheelpant. Parallel parkers will have to pivot much sooner to keep back of the curbside wheelpant off the curb.

[@protoearth]

Could the 88” width be referencing the maximum width (with wheels turned)?

[@Beezerfish79]

Or is it when both doors are open as the doors stick out over the wheels

[@herawynn1397]

88" was announced when they had Alpha. The wheelpants went througg a lot of changes and it was mentioned they were slimmed out a bit, so feasible to guess an inch narrower on each side.

[@plague6079]

Thanks for the measurements! I was wondering what the distance from ground to top of bottom cushion on drivers seat should you get another chance to view. Terrific Vehicle!

[@jeannepv9712]

Thanks, Steve. I love that you thought to bring your tape measure. Great detail. 😉

[@adhochero6619]

my main worry about the height of the wheel covers is when you live in a place with road that have terrible dips and bumps, is if the front and back of the wheel pans will hit/scrape on them, and things like really bad speed bumps

[@Leonardokite]

Concerning the wheel pants clearance. I would think that more clearance would introduce more drag. It would seem somewhat of a trade-off of drag versus clearance. It would be nice to have numbers showing added drag for added clearance so one can make a better decision on whether to go with the off-road version. As for snow, from what I have seen snow tends to accumulate behind the tire in the wheel well and is kept at Bay by the tire. Since the tire and wheel well maintain constant clearance as opposed to a normal vehicle where the tire is bouncing up and down in the wheel well I expect this should not be a problem.

[@ApteraOwnersClub]

Yes you get it. Many people don't get that constant clearance makes snow basically a non issue

[@maudessen573]

I live in St. Louis, where we have icy, wet snow rather than powder. The reason it packs into wheel wells around here is not because it is deep, but rather because the tire picks it up (semi-melted because of salting) and deposits it inside the wheel well. Ice accumulates first on the trailing edge and from there packs forward. It can actually accumulate to the point where the entire wheel well is packed solidly enough to interfere with turning the wheel, so we kick off the ice after we park. In my climate, I think it’s likely that the wheelpant and skirt will do the same…pack ice inside the trailing edge, etc. If the ice accumulation is in an enclosed space, though, it won’t be possible to kick off. Luckily, some early adopters live in cold climates, so we can see what their real world experience will be.

[@Disciple_Jon]

I wonder if there will be enough heat generated by the motors to melt snow/ice in the wheel pants

[@Leonardokite]

@@maudessen573 one difference here is that when you turn the wheels it is turning within the wheel well. With the Aptera, when you turn the wheels the wheel well / pants turn with the wheel. I might add that possibly thaw / freeze might cause a problem if chunks of snow / ice break free and then freeze again. That may place a bit of a torque on the wheel pants upon startup.

[@ApteraOwnersClub]

the inwheel motors have ridiculous torque and they have footage of a motor basically encased in ice ripping free of the ice. kzbin.info/www/bejne/bnK3gYx7jrNpiZo

[@TitusvRijn]

I love the brownish raw material - hope they keep that … and that it might be a bit narrower? Paint or wrap? Still hoping for partly painted. Thanks again for checking thinks out Steve.

[@LightsOnMultiMediaMindArts]

As I watch these latest videos about the Gamma release and I see complaints about the yoke or the charge port or the cup holder. It occurs to me that there are some very strong parallels between Aptera and another major company. Apple's slogan was Think Different! when Steve Jobs returned to the helm. Think of the game changing popularity of the first iMac. Think of the controversy yet instant appeal over the unique shape of the iMac. Aptera likewise does "Think Different!" Aptera does indeed have a unique shape. Could Aptera be the next iMac of EVs? There are many significant similarities beyond shape. Steve Jobs and Apple did away with the multi-button mouses, did away with floppy disks, DVD drives, did away with all sorts of things that people initially moaned about but eventually bought into. Aptera has done away with a fourth wheel, done away with steering wheel in favor of the yoke, they've done away with door handles, and HVAC vents in the dashboard, with the rear view mirror, (almost) side view mirrors. There are companies that cater to what the public wants, and there are visionary artists/designer companies who lead the public to better products that the public doesn't even imagine. That's what Aptera is. Aptera is not the next Tesla. Apter is the next Apple.

[@mebran1193]

88 is my biggest fear but us Muricans have big roads. Really just want fast efficient transportation that I can fix and play with. And Chris's fear of scratching also echos mine. I'll take any color that can be molded in

[@PereAndreuUbachdeFuentes]

Hi! I know this video is already somewhat old, but I came up with this thought/conclusion now, and I think this is the video most related to it. I hope you or the people from Aptera read it anyway. The thing is that there is a design flaw in Aptera that has been overlooked because of a design criteria. And after this design criteria has been removed, the design flaw stands. I am talking about the rear corners of the Aptera. Ever since I have seen the Gamma reveal, I have been scratching my head about that clear plastic corner for the rear turn indicators that are screaming: "break me!" (2:39). Unlike the clear plastic covers for the turn indicators on the wheel pants, which are curved and therefore well integrated within the wheel pants, the clear plastic covers for the turn indicators at the rear have to controur a sharp corner. The reason for that sharp corner was only because there were the chevron solar panels, and they needed the horizontal surface generated by that corner. But once the chevron solar panels are gone, that corner is no longer needed. Instead, by removing that corner and trimming it, the access to the trunk would be much easier. In addition, if you look at the suggestions by the artificial intelligence software regarding the aerodynamic optimization, that part is suggested to be minimized, and it is not suggested to be removed because of the design restriction of having to house the chevron solar panels. Besides, that part is already very thin and aerodynamically-wise, it can be trimmed off, reducing the "wetted" surface and therefore reducing the overall skin friction of the car. In order to avoid increasing the turbulent drag, the trimming curve shall be designed elliptical.

[@Lord_Mangoat]

I think my only complaint about it would be the net-like cupholder. I understand the purpose of it, being able to change depending on the size of the drink, but I hope that they provide accessories to swap that out for more traditional cupholders or something else to be there. Any word on USB ports or wireless charging pads for phones?

[@kennethrichardson1065]

3D printing opportunity :)

[@Lord_Mangoat]

@@kennethrichardson1065 All for that idea. I know they said they'd be helpful for aftermarket parts to be made, so I assume even at-home people with 3D printers. Hope to see a few options appear on Etsy, when that does happen.

[@Hei_hey]

Thank you Aptera for all your work the last two years... in midst of many supply chain issues from the Pandemic and logistics to keep people safe. God bless 🕊 California hq and its statewide residents 🌲🌳living through harsh drought conditions wildfires and recent flooding. Hope attention of success of this ☀🏡solar vehicle gives back in many blessings to Ca. State or city governments interested in lifetime (ability to get manufactured diy repair parts from Aptera) vehicles ....that could achieve affordable renewable transport ...get encouraged and inspired to research this company and contribute a green energy investment 💰

[@LifeInFrame]

I hope that the off-road all wheel drive package has more ground clearance around the wheel covers. That wouldn't work for me out where I live in the Colorado Rockies.

[@TopwizSoft]

What happens to the wheel pants if you get a flat at high speed?

[@ddessert6]

Actually, what happens when you get a flat, period. The front pants look to be below the rim line and the pant would then strike the payment. A flat could cost you dearly.

[@TopwizSoft]

@@ddessert6 My thoughts exactly.

[@TerkanTyr]

It looks so good with the white "glogo", slick. Wonder if fixing a flat is gonna be a nightmare though, if it's even possible? Especially with the rear wheel. Are there stable carjack points on this thing?

[@n.brucenelson5920]

Yes, jack points both front and rear. Fixing a flat should not be harder than with many motorcycles. Most of us will use a pair of pliers, a plug kit, and a DC inflator for most repairs.

[@joezolo9986]

I heard there may be a 3 seat version. Will the 3rd seat behind and centered between the two front seats? What is the head room like at that point?

[@johnb7430]

It's great they are listening to comments. I still think they need to discharge a battery to 20% -ish, park it in the sun and show a time lapse of the display showing state of charge / range from 0800 - 1730. (A typical work day length) The PRIMARY benefit of the vehicle is "solar self charge" and they havent shown squat about how it actually performs. Heck, the FIRST reveal of solar is just now ...

[@bobhilder1469]

The panel on the roof and a panel intended for the hood had so many "flaws" (technical and cosmetic) that it is obvious they are struggling to make panels. I've said it before, it's much harder then they thought it would be. Add to that that they don't appear to have any solar design/fab experienced engineers. I'm really beginning to believe that the solar is the "bottleneck" at Aptera......

[@n.brucenelson5920]

@@bobhilder1469 It is the most sensitive area for protecting IP. They also have the most engineers working in that area. I think you are mis-understanding the signs. There is a lot that they don''t want to give away at this stage.

[@bobhilder1469]

@@n.brucenelson5920 "It is the most sensitive area for protecting IP." Irrelevant to the quality issues. "They also have the most engineers working in that area." Throwing a bunch of possibly solar inexperienced engineers is possibly the source of the quality problems. "There is a lot that they don''t want to give away at this stage." Irrelevant to the quality issues. "I think you are mis-understanding the signs." I think you meant to reply to a different comment.......

[@richardservatius5405]

i'm wondering how long an item could be diagonally if you tilted the passenger seat forward or took it out entirely.

[@yousufkhan2627]

Good to know the ground clearance of the wheel cover. Unfortunately where I live they would get thrashed. I hope they do come out with the off-road package. So I do not have to worry as much about that issue.

[@tehScribbles]

Width is certainly a bit of a relief, 88" was pretty large. My last big concern is the view of the front wheels, particularly the passenger one which seems to be out of view at all times, maybe it could be in view of a camera. As far as my other preferences I still think I would probably forego hatch solar (until such a time as clear/tinted solar glass is available), and keep a standard rearview mirror(going camera only on side views), and probably pipe the rearview camera into the center screen with an enlarged picture when in reverse.

[@GaryGreenway]

While the extra low wheelpants look better and probably flow better, they certainly would not survive Michigan roads. Since you'll be talking wheelpants in the future, did you find out any more about the different wheelpants in the off road package?

[@n.brucenelson5920]

I live on a gravel road in Iowa, and am not too worried about the stock pants. I will be reporting on my experience with a Paradigm, so I may be able to confirm or ease your fears before you take delivery.

[@robertd9850]

I'll second that. I only lived in MI three years but was enough to know what you're talking about.

[@GaryGreenway]

@@n.brucenelson5920 Yeah, it'll be valuable to get all of these first hand reports from early customers before I spec my final order.

[@ScottOstr]

I'm really curious if they find a simple cheap way of raising the road clearance

[@kalmmonke5037]

just have the wheel covers not go so low

[@michaelkruse1413]

I was told by an Aptera employee that the ground clearance will be 5 inches. I am concerned about clearance and width. I love the car sooo much and hope it gets to production!

[@DaBinChe]

My slightly lowered Miata has 5" ground clearance on the underside not sure of suspension parts. And I have no problems with impacting anything except at the front on the curb from parking straight in parking slot. Even those concrete front wheel stoppers in the parking spot will barely just clear the front. On a car the body stays put while the wheel moves into the wheel well so under side will get closer. The Aptera wheel pants moves with the front wheel so will always maintain that 3inch. While my Miata if hit a 2inch pothole, wheel will move into the wheel well at least 2inches if not more so under body will be at most 3inches to the ground in that case. So I'm not too concern about the clearance but I would like the wheel covers to be just as high as the sidewall profile of the tires so it just drops down to the lip of the rims. I hope they are using at least a 4inch tall sidewall profile tire. Example would be a 205/50 profile or equivalent height side wall, low enough to be sporty but tall enough to be smooth and not damage rims. This profile height from my experience works best, pretty much anything lower will have have tire/rim issues and anything taller will feel mushy. I also hope they use a 17" wheels. More choices in tires available than 16" but still about the same price while 18" is more costly. But also weight too 17" isn't so heavy.

[@AuburnElvis]

I hope they'll add headlights to the wheel fairings. I was once in a nighttime motorcycle accident where a driver didn't notice me and turned in front of me. I'm convinced my single headlight made me less notable than if I'd been in a traditional car. With the Aptera being essentially as wide as a traditional car, headlights could be mounted in the fairings, which would make them as notable as other vehicles, particularly at night.

[@LordTimelord]

Like a lot of motorcycle adventure riders, maybe add a set of auxiliary lights with the wiring running out on the front wheel suspension on each side? It would introduce some drag, but it would be a cool way to add additional lighting for more visibility!

[@Sqeptick]

Our two biggest questions that'll need to be addressed before we follow through with our order. First, how does it do in the standard crash tests. And second, will there be somewhere in our area we can take it for service, if needed. The car looks awesome.

[@n.brucenelson5920]

Crash tests are scheduled as soon as they have deltas available for testing. I have already talked to my local independent and they can't wait to see it for service. I think this will be a common response. Not a lot of standard service to do though. Things like occasional windshield wiper replacement.

[@iansmith6728]

I can't wait for it to become a reality. I do question the design around the bottom edge of the hatch and where the water drains to. I couldn't see any drains in any of the footage. Also, on one of the other channels, the rear console moved significantly when someone inadvertently lent on it sideways.

[@gmy33]

Its a lightweight vehicle .. i cant lean sideways on my van

[@TheExumRidge]

are we able to plug in our GoalZero(or similar) briefcase panels when at home? It would be nice if I could augment the solar with an external capability. GoalZero maybe can help with a clean solution.

[@sojourner4726]

I like them to talk about the ground/wheel clearance and what are the chances of the vehicle scraping concrete and pavement when pulling into a parking lot or driveway. 3 inches of wheel clearance raises a cautious concern. And as always winter conditions are a popular concern. I look forward to them having some good test footage of the vehicle in rough ice and snow conditions when they have the deltas built. because if they can demonstrate the vehicle handling those conditions very well then that will alleviate a lot of concerns for the bulk of North America and Europe.

[@n.brucenelson5920]

I am scheduled for the 42nd Paradigm edition and live in Iowa, so I plan to give early reports from personal experience.

[@fourteenfour1]

Interesting discovery on the width... I really wish Aptera would up their order page, show the correct interior, and remove that fantasy battery imagery

[@graham337]

@4:28, is that duct tape on the door/window? What are we looking at there?

[@davidgeorge7443]

Great work, looking forward to seeing your day with Aptera. Thank you!

[@Kua1996]

2 Questions: 1) What is the difference on offroad package and how it affects mileage? 2) Is there air pressure shown values shown in the car since it makes a difference in mileage and you do not want to scrape the car on the ground?

[@thomasbevan5897]

Where does water drain around the boot?

[@SimonYpsilon]

It would be awesome to have the wheel pants mounted in a way that lets you adjust their height. When I know that I am only driving on highways, I would like to have it really close to the ground but then when driving over rough streets or offroad, to be able to just lift them up a little without having to mount different wheel pants. But it is probably too late now for that change. Most awesome would be if it could do that electronically and you could either do that via the screen or it would do it automatically based on the speed. High speed => low wheel pants, low speed => high wheel pants.

[@ApteraOwnersClub]

That's a great idea but I think that would add a lot of complexity and cost that they can't afford right now and would make it less robust

[@shinyy187]

That’s what I hope the off-road kit is. A pair of shorter wheel covers that ship with your aptera (in addition to the default covers) and you can manually change them out easily depending on the kind of surface you’ll be traveling on.

[@ronaldclarkson1146]

I think Citroen beat them to it years ago.

[@biodan8577]

@@ApteraOwnersClub FYI, Porsche's Front Axle Lift option is $3k. It works well; its manually controlled but when raised, at 30mph, it will auto-lower. I'm not sure about the weight though.

[@SimonYpsilon]

@@ApteraOwnersClub Thats what I was thinking too

[@EVswithKaz]

Thanks for this! I got mistaken for you at the show quite a few times. I don’t think we look alike but apparently at least 5 strangers think we do 😄 I wanted to say hi but you were busy measuring, so next time!

[@ApteraOwnersClub]

I guess we are both thinner guys with dark hair and glasses? 😂

[@EVswithKaz]

@@ApteraOwnersClub 😂 and who make videos on Aptera.

[@jonj9149]

That was me in the gamma passenger seat asking you that Kaz! I didn't look at you closely as I was too distracted by the vehicle interior. Steve said he wasn't coming until Sunday, so I was incredulous to potentially run into him which is why I asked if you were Steve. I also thought maybe you were wearing a mask. I watch your content too, of course, which is very good. I took me a moment to mentally place your name with your channel and by the time I got out of the vehicle, you were long gone.

[@EVswithKaz]

@@jonj9149 No worries! I was asked if I was Steve many times over the weekend 😄I'm bummed I didn't get to meet Steve. It would have been great to get a picture together.

[@robertd9850]

So up close, does it look like a paint job or a wrap? Wondering how you would repair minor cosmetic damage on a wrap.

[@Tore_Lund]

It seems that the front wheel spats have become narrower in this iteration. Does that explain the 3" difference? Narrower is good, as wheel width directly translates to frontal area.

[@shehp5190]

Definitely needs some real world driving, because the clearance on the wheel pans is going to be a problem for many parkinglot-meets-the-road slopes. Constant scrubbing and scratching trying to pull out of a parking lot ahead of oncoming traffic. Pulling into a parking lot as well, but you can take your time more vs. trying to catch a break to get into a traffic

[@MrFowl]

I don't think it'll be an issue. The approach/departure angles are really high because the wheel pants are so small. Realistically this probably has better clearance than a sedan with 5" of ground clearance.

[@dukeofdubuque950]

The horizontal measurements of the Aptera's trunk are impressive, but what about the height?

[@jtinz74]

A few rings in the trunk to strap down things would be welcome. Can the seats be moved at all?

[@ApteraOwnersClub]

tie down points are planned and yes the seats move quite a bit. you will see in upcoming video.

[@wil04us]

Also, the wheel pants are closer and closer to the ground....I suspect to achieve the least air resistance possible. This will be the the best design for most people. Butt for those who cannot live with those close parameters, perhaps Aptera could design break-away scored, wheel pants maybe in 2 one inch sections, where the owner can cut away his or hers perfect clearance? Since Aptera reads your channel, maybe it is one easy solution? Will~

[@davepeterschmidt5818]

The clearance on the wheel pants seems like it will be problematic when driving in snowy/slushy freezing winter conditions when ice tends to build up in wheel wells and such. Can someone comment on how the wheel shrouds will be different in the off-road package? Will the clearance be better?

[@raisedbyninjas_]

Now every incident of wheel or tire rash will scratch off the paint at a minimum.

[@ericpotter7954]

Not just snow and slush. I have a rolled curb at the end of my driveway, so with a clearance of just 3 inches, I would scrape all three wheel skirts on that rolled curb every time I pull in to or out of my driveway.

[@n.brucenelson5920]

I live in Iowa, on a gravel road, and I am actually not too worried. I will be giving early reports on the actual performance in these conditions, however.

[@pezpengy9308]

to be honest, i had planned from day one to simply remove the wheel pants. i can take the efficiency hit, i dont want the curb hit and resultant bill. if i want to go off roading ill take my trucky, thats one of the many things its very good at.

[@alsjogren7890]

Will Aptera's wheel pants clear topes (speed bumps) in Mexico? My concern is MEX 15 from Nogales to Guaymas.

[@jackstrange6360]

How has this video held up? The official announcement for this vehicle is 87.6 inches. I have a single car garage and at that width it will be a tight fit. Really tight.

[@thedroolfool]

Does the rear wheel fairing move with the rear suspension? It looks like it's going to get wrecked by taller speed bumps.

[@falseprogress]

Are you sure they're not including camber or other distortion during turns in the 88" width? Tandem seating solves the width-need but people would rather see the road ahead.

[@juliahello6673]

What’s the width when the wheels are turned?

[@door2416]

I really love the whole Aptera concept but after looking at the wheels and hub motors could someone explain how you would get a flat tire fixed. I don't see how they could fit on any common tire machine either to fix a flat or replace the tires.

[@ApteraOwnersClub]

Just look up tire change in this channel. It's just like any other car.

[@door2416]

@@ApteraOwnersClub Thank you, makes total sense.

[@Andy-jq5yw]

Will the parking sensors on the wheel pants be used for left right in addition to front back?

[@fakeaccount6230]

Those wheel covers and ground clearance around them is very concerning. Did Aptera took this Gamma version for drive in real world conditions?

[@Jonathan02937]

Do you consider So California real world? Most of the US sure doesn't. Imagine on pot hole and goodbye tire pants.

[@danam0228]

If the skirts on the wheels go up and down with the wheel it doesn't need to be all that high off the ground to avoid anything the wheel is going over, but I share your comcern just the same.

[@chucknorri5]

I am mostly worries about pot holes in the road. If the third wheel goes down will it crack anything major?

[@ApteraOwnersClub]

When Chuck Norris hits potholes, he doesn't crack, the pothole cracks.

[@dougkresl7538]

Two questions: 1) The cup holder design seems odd, especially with the netting on top. I wonder if they are going to change that? 2) With the "vent" around the screen, is there any way to control the flow or direction of air, or does it just blow into the cabin? Seem like a narrow slit of air that would be hard to control or direct.

[@saxman657]

I’m told the change order is already in.

[@n.brucenelson5920]

They said the air stream can be directed.

[@Bob_Sacamano]

the thing i wanted to know the most!!!!! thank you!!! i have a steep ramp from street for my driveway. im gonna scrape so hard.

[@schtinerbock4570]

Likewise. I'd sacrifice aerodynamics for more reasonable wheel covers. Those things are gigantic and super low.

[@richh650]

The wheel covers can be low to the ground since they appear to be on the same structure as the control arm so they shouldn't move in respect to the tires.... Baring any potholes and curbing of course....

[@philblum1496]

Did you measure the open doors? Maybe that is where it measures 88"

[@ApteraOwnersClub]

no i didn't measure them but the door opens at least 8 inches further on each side so would be at least 101" wide with doors open

[@mitremlap1891]

I live in Manhattan in New York City and I have ordered the off road kit because of NYC road conditions potholes+snow. I currently own a Mini Cooper S which has 5 inch of clearance and I work in the film industry building sets in studios 3-10 miles away and parking in an open parking lot, so no charging. We start work at 6AM which is really before the public transit starts. 10 min drive vs 1 hour+ public transit. I would sacrifice the efficiency for not having to go back to pick up the wheel covers. Just wish it was shorter for street parking. Otherwise the perfect urban vehicle.

[@DeeSock]

Not sure if regulations forbid but a seat option made of ropes like the cupholder would be cool

[@arlenbell4376]

I know you couldn’t get inside and close the doors, but I’d still like to know the “shoulder” width of the seating. The space in the trunk is 48 inches. Does that get wider at the seats?

[@My84Lude]

This is a city car. I would not be able to take it up my brother’s driveway in rural Oregon. When will the details of the Off-Road package be known? I’d be scraping the wheel pans often in this highway configuration. I really want this machine

[@n.brucenelson5920]

I will be taking mine to Death Valley after delivery, then up to Bellingham, Washington, and then across to Iowa, where I live on a gravel road. We will report on the cross country experience.

[@herawynn1397]

Seeing all this footage leaves me with only 3 concerns. 1. The hole for the steering rods into the body, concerned for water, dirt, rocks, and snow build-up in there 2. Still curious about the turn radius, looks like it will not be tight 3. The window trim being right in line of site out the door while driving. Last 2 are things to get used to, but the first one, definitely a concern. Otherwise, super excited for this car. I think I may be the only reservation in Delaware. Thanks for the coverage!

[@n.brucenelson5920]

Depending on how they integrate the differential steering capability, the turning radius is not dependent on the angle the front wheels can move to.

[@herawynn1397]

@@n.brucenelson5920 would there be a differential since these are in wheel motors, no transmission, and doing all of its vectoring electronically?

[@Salanan]

You can see me and the wheel pants engineer standing up after talking about where the jacking points will be, and how theyre going to accomplish jacking without scratching or damaging the shell at 5:00

[@ApteraOwnersClub]

you should come join the panel for the Q&A on thursday!

[@Salanan]

@@ApteraOwnersClub Maybe. I don't know how useful I'd be. and I believe the proposed time is really late on the east coast where I live.

[@GaryGreenway]

We'd like to hear what he said

[@BlondieSuperdog]

Ive seen too many aptera videos and not enough production and delivery to customers - when will that happen - give a solid date.

[@ApteraOwnersClub]

Before Faraday Future and after the Cybertruck

[@n.brucenelson5920]

@@ApteraOwnersClub I think we will see production Apterae on the road before Cybertruck myself.

[@paulrybarczyk5013]

I hope dark interior colors are an option at all the obvious stain-points ... seats, door handles, arm rests, center console, steering wheel, flooring, etc.

[@ApteraOwnersClub]

Yes I think there are going to be 3 interior color scheme options

[@500846]

Isn’t the technical term for the wheel covers “spats”?

[@calvinlim9485]

I'd like enough room in the wheel pants to choose better rubber in a size that is competitive. Coming from an odd size for the Honda Fit, just going up a size lead to much better grip, lower cost and wider available selection if in a bind. I'm glad they hinted at the Prius tire size.

[@deanstewart2]

One of the factory tour videos said the tire size is 195/45/R16.

[@davidparsons5513]

I would think the engineers chose a tire that minimized rolling resistance. A wider tire, or one of a different 'sticky' blend will increase resistance, contrary to their mission. Of course, once it's in your hands, mods are at your discretion.

[@calvinlim9485]

@@deanstewart2 I think there are more choices at 195/50r16 especially for winter

[@calvinlim9485]

@@davidparsons5513 yeah just wanted a size that had a bunch of options. It can be a chore to find very oddball sizes if you have a flat in an unfamiliar area

[@beachbeemer]

What happens to the drag coefficient if you are being beamed up into the belly of a mother ship? This is a big concern for me because of the starship design of the vehicle. They may mistake it as one of their own. Pack some survival food folks!

[@bobhilder1469]

There's no air within the beam so drag goes to 0. I'd be more concerned about breathing than about being fed.....

[@zencone]

As of 2-10-23 Aptera's front end wheel pant to wheel pant width is 87.6". So it's still not 88", but it's not 85"

[@kennethrichardson1065]

Does the front passenger seat fold forward down? It would be nice to be able to fit a 8 foot lumber there.

[@ApteraOwnersClub]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/gHPceJ17mM1sr9U

[@kennethrichardson1065]

@@ApteraOwnersClub - a 2x4x8 might fit diagonally. The Aptera is only 3 inches shorter than my Mazda five and I can fit lumber inside that. That Mazda has a bigger bumper. Thanks for the link.

[@BobDiaz123]

I wish you had measured how high the trunk space is, back and front. It looks like there's not a lot of room in the back, but plenty of room toward the front. The real question is how far back can you go and still fit a paper grocery bag standing upright?