A three-wheeled electric car powered by solar energy

The ultra-efficient vehicle holds two people and runs all day without needing to be charged

Spotted: Aptera’s latest vehicle design is the fighter-jet inspired Never Charge electric car. Powered by solar energy, the car drives up to 40 miles per day without requiring a stop for charging. Three square metres of solar panels cover the body of the car, and owners have a choice of additional power options via battery size and the number of motors. With a top speed of 110 miles per hour, the sleek design has an extremely low drag coefficient (0.13).

Liquid-cooled motors are available in packages of either two or three, and battery sizes range from 25 kWh to 100 kWh, with a 40 and 60 kWh version also available. The 25 kWh version provides a range of 400 kilometres, and with only a single charge from a standard outlet, the 100 kWh battery provides 1,600 kilometres worth of power.

Additional customisation options include more solar panels, bespoke interior, integrated tent and awning and a pet safety divider. The company is currently accepting pre-orders, and production is planned to begin in 2021, with estimated delivery dates still to be confirmed.

As well as cars, Springwise is spotting solar-powered electric vehicles in a range of forms, including a cargo ship and a mobility tricycle that carries people and goods for last-mile deliveries.

Explore more: Mobility & Transport Innovations | Computing & Tech Innovations