Well you're gonna have plenty of time living in an Aptera down by the river.... when... you're living in an Aptera DOWN BY THE RIVER! (Chris Farley RIP).
The choice to put the air intake under the vehicle is unfortunate and highlights the fair weather focus the Aptera team has. Perhaps they are succumbing to the pressure to get a vehicle out the door no matter what concessions they have to make. One of the things I liked about the Aptera was that it had a smooth undercarriage so deep snow would have less of an effect on its operation. With the air scope under the vehicle, it will quickly clog up with snow and ice in the winter. Have they never seen the amount of snow and ice that builds up in wheel wells in current cars? I hope they change this before my vehicle is ready.
I immediately thought the same thing (we live in the Pacific Northwest now, and we love skiing and snowy road trips) It doesn't seem like a difficult fix: maybe split it into two separate similarly-sized scoops and push them toward the sides just enough that they are not the lowest things on the belly, and that would make me feel much better about it. They would still be unobtrusive, still look cool if you're looking for them, and they would be much easier to clean if the occasion arose. Plus would give you almost twice the airflow (I imagine they would shrink a bit in the move).
As much as I love many things about the Aptera, this is a big problem for me as I live in a place with snowy roads much of the year. If Aptera wants widespread appeal they can't design just for southern California. I wish Aptera the best, but they will have to change this.
Thanks Steve for posting this. I'd just like to add that in Aptera's own release they admit that this is a nonfunctioning prototype assembled for show. They would not open the hood. They supposedly have another one somewhere at the show that is going to be giving rides to the faithful. That's the one I hope you can really focus on.
@@artsmith103 Yes, it's all an elaborate scam.... in the Trolly-McTroll boy brain-box. Thanks for making the world safe from these grifters! Damn, that was close. I was thinking about investing a little more, and you saved me from such foolishness! I can't figure out why they are spending so much time on details and expensive production when it's just a scam. They must hope to sell some of these. Oh, the horror!
I love that there is a "dead pedal" for driver's left-foot; my MINI COOPER has one and its perfect for planting your foot through turns, heavy-braking or otherwise just the feel of having your legs out the same-length as on-the-gas-pedal.
That actually for me getting in and out of the vehicle. You place your right foot on it as you sit in. Once seated, you pivot your legs and body to center yourself behind the wheel. This is how real men get into low profile vehicles.
Exactly, soon as I saw that I thought "wow, this thing really is an aircraft now", such a distinctive feature and a really cool look (as if it needed more!!😂)
It sure looks cool, but I am concerned about the intake getting filled with road debris, snow/ice, or even dirt and plants if taken onto an unpaved road. Hopefully they can demonstrate that it won't be much of an issue.
Exactly!!! Love that P51-D shape with the turbo scoop that helped so much to turn the tides of WWII on both the European and Pacific fronts. It sounds awesome too! (@5:00 mark of th-cam.com/video/_LWFk6W5EYQ/w-d-xo.html). I'm gonna really love my Aptera! This is the coolest thing in the world!
It will indeed. It is also the lowest point on the belly, so first object to hit if the car bottoms out. As I said to @mrtriathlondude : Split it into two separate scoops and push them toward the sides just enough that they are not the lowest things on the belly, and that would make me feel much better about it. They would still be unobtrusive, still look cool if you're looking for them, and they would be much easier to clean if the occasion arose.
What a great Concept that was in 2006 - still just Prototypes in 2025. I'm quite confident they will hit the 20th anniversary without selling one car to a Customer. Or is there anyone in this "Aptera Owners' Club" who really owns one?
Thanks Steve. I appreciate the detailed coverage talking about what is ready for production and the bits that were 3D printed for the show. The revised cooling system is interesting. We will have to see how it affect the EV's drag and overall efficiency.
Thank you so much for posting this. I am so excited for this car to come out and the detail is awesome so looking forward to the rest of the videos about the car.
LOVE that huge dead pedal. Being able to brace my pelvis while driving is a big help for my back pain. I'm a bit disappointed at the number of fabricated parts at this point, especially the polycarbonate solar panels. The vulnerability of the underside air scoop worries me, especially on rutted, gravel roads or in slushy conditions. I hope they can make the skin cooling work eventually. The closer they get to production the happier I am that since I am Canadian, there will be time for them to work out some of these issues before they start delivering up here.
They've really got to subject this thing to different real life conditions. We don't all live in CA. That air intake is worrisome for different conditions like rain and plastic bags that I'm always finding myself straddling and then checking the rearview to make sure it didn't get caught under my car
Thinking there should be some form of display feature to inform us Midwesterners of airflow into the system. Perhaps % of airflow or exit temperature. Snow and slush gonna be an issue so would be nice to know when I have to send passenger out to lay in the crap to clear the obstruction.😂
That scoop looks like the one on the bottom of the firefighting planes that fly just above the lake to allow it to scoop water into the tanks without landing to refill Not good in the case of water in the road …., Snow will block it immediately on the grill but might not be immediate issue for cooling in winter ! I am a small stock holder
By the time most of us will get our turn purchasing there will be many more developments including am hoping the 1000 mile range. Like even say 800 mile range is a lot lot lot range with quick charge. And 800 dropping extreme by 50% in freeze...to 400 mile range, still a lot lot lots of range!
Exactly. By the time they make all these changes, actually get tooling into their empty "factory", and start selling them in 40 years, I'm sure they will have everything figured out by then. 🤣
Thanks Steve for the great coverage, as always. This is the first time seeing the belly air scoop. I'm sure Aptera ran the aero-analysis and the drag hit is probably low. Sorry the live feed didn't work out this morning but you made it on the Aptera feed. Way to go Aptera!
@@paulrybarczyk5013 My thought exactly. Not certain it would last a mile on snowy / sloppy roads. I was definitely not intending the Aptera to be a nice weather only vehicle.
Anyone know if it's included on the diecast model? I just ordered one... Maybe an avenue for some 3D printed mods in future for the true scale enthusiasts 😉
Thanks so much for your coverage at CES Steve! I admit I am disappointed at the belly scoop air intake and bottom facing exhaust. In addition to increased drag, I believe they may collect a lot of water and road grime. Time and testing will tell, but I hope it does not end up being a high maintenance cleaning issue.
Agreed. Probably ok for sunny California and similar sunny dry locations, but may be an issue in snowy northern areas with the road grime or snow and slush, and improperly maintained (gravel) roads.
Reminds me of cleaning the undersides of aircraft. Which if you’ve ever done, accumulates a good amount of grime quickly. Driving in normal weather might not be so bad but rain and snow will likely lead to buildup that will need to regularly be cleaned
@@shinyy187 I have cleaned the underside of aircraft also and understand that well. Great comparison. Being in Wisconsin, I guess winter is the biggest concern. Drag for daily driving.
A lot of discussion on here about this feature... myself, I can't see anything inline ahead of the intake to kick up water/grime and stuff, the front wheels also having a very wide stance (unless you happen to be following something with a messy "wake" - think pickup or semi), in the aircraft situation it's generally the prop wash that sprays everything up off the runway too, so again, not quite the same here... a great subject for an entire video @ApteraOwnersClub !
@BigRecio I wanted AWD. Still do. Hub motors I was worried about but liked the idea. My biggest concern has always been how well will it handle the snow even with AWD? I also want to know real world driving conditions. I drive about 45 miles to work. (90 round trip) I love in Southern New Hampshire. What will my range be in the cold. This time of year when the days are short? And what will it be like 6 months from now? How much mileage will I use running the heat? I'm excited for Aptera but I have lots of questions and concerns that probably won't be answered until people start buying them and test. them for real.
@@BigRecio They announced that Elaphe would NOT be supplying hub motors immediately some time ago. This results in a major simplification in the cooling system for initial production, but likely impact ride in two ways - it is probably less rigid over bumps, but the traction control may not be as good.
They said they will have the rear hub motor in future production. If not I will not buy one. My reservation 22,000 something. I prefer the inboard single front motor.
Crazy SPACE MACHINE! That just might win the hearts & minds of millions. You got me proper! ( I started the Australian 356 Porsche Registry in '86 with a friend.... SUPER APTERA! )
If you're on dirt tracks with grass down the middle that air intake may be dragging through it. Same with snow I guess. I had my Ora fitted with a stone guard and at 125mm clearance it does get used. Aptera is slightly higher.
Steve, many thanks. I was a bit underwhelmed by the reveal because I had understood that the particular build on display was missing significant parts, like the battery pack, therefore making it undrivable. Was there another PI build at CES which was drivable?
@adimchionyenadum2962 That's the one to see. The prototype Aptera took to Jay Leno looked fine just standing in his garage, looked very chintzy when out on the road. There is a reason the wheelpants have received all that scrutiny over the years.
Thanks to AOC fro coming through for us as usual and with a balanced review! Similar to the Gamma reveal where the vehicle was not 100% a gamma. Not really production intent as some parts are not produced by production tooling. Biggest negative is solar panels are not all glass laminated. Still dev work and expense before ready for prime time/customer production. Capital acquisition even more important at this point. From another video, no drive train or battery in the display Aptera. (Nothing under the hood) This is now the biggest negative of the PI4. Disappointing.
Yes, but there is a production intent battery and a fully functional drive train in PI2 (Hermes) that is presently giving folks test drives. That is absolutely complementary. What one lacks, the other supplies. I don't think there is anything disappointing about that. Aptera made it clear there were going to be these complementary role of the PI build on the show.
A lot of compromises made and not anywhere close to production ready. Unfortunately I found this video disappointing as well. Trying to stay hopeful though, would really love to drive one before I retire!
Does anyone else have an unsettled feeling about PI-4? I really was hoping that it would be a build that knocked it out to the park. Actual production intent not flimsy 3D printed parts or a solar package that is not all glass? They were to have the ability to make the solar panels there in CA. They are making panels for other companies, why use old panels when they claimed to have the ability to make the top and rear hatch panels? The air intake on the bottom of the vehicle is going to get packed with snow. The front tires will splash snow to the center of the vehicle and that air intake is going to suck that snow and ice in and plug within minutes.
Is the polymer rear hatch an "old panel"? No. It's a newly made stand-in for the actual panel to be made later from glass. This is a very large piece with a reverse compound curve. It looks impressive as is. It must be less expensive to use this to test the solar output than tooling up for glass at this point. Glad I could help.
I have a huge unsettled feeling. Since they have placed all their eggs in the "Solar Mobility Basket" one would think that would be a focus of their efforts. There has been alot of bragging about solar panels being a core competency yet no PI panels?
I wanted an AWD model so it won’t be me, but I can’t wait for someone who has to drive in snow to get one of these to see how it goes. I’ve filled many engine bays with snow, would that belly intake being plugged with ice be a problem? Aside from that, congrats to the team on another step on the winding road to production.
I'm driving from Los Angeles to Vegas tomorrow morning for the CES. I didn't rent a hotel because I'll be camping in my Tesla MYP parked in some hotel parking lot. Truck stops are are best for shower facilities. Set my Tesla on camping mode, put up my window panels and zzzzzzzzz. It's actually quite fun. I can't wait to do this in my Aptera.
Like the phone charger, glad to see that a phone can be plugged in and stored in there. The slot for passing the charging cord through is a nice touch. Very well thought out!
Editrd: The body, including the air intake looks great. I think the decision to go with CPC for the body was a wise one. After rethinking the air scoop placement. I don't think they will fair we'll in a place like New England.
This is how creepy the interwebs are. I’m at CES having lunch at Siegel’s Bagelmania and the Aptera pulls up right outside the window where we’re sitting. I mention to my colleague that I’m having lunch with “Cool…the new Aptera just pulled up”. About 5 minutes later I turn on my iPad (it was O-F-F) and open TH-cam. This was the 1st video in my feed. I’ve never shown an interest in Aptera before. Go figure.
Please talk about 2 things: 1) are the carbon fiber dusty or is that the look. Everywhere black looks dirty. 2) is only the front going to be glass cover for the solar panels or is the top and back also going to be? Thank you!
The air scoop will find objects. Curb, speed bumps, road debris (especially in rural areas). Aside from that... looks decent. Fit/finish on the trunk area (and mirror fasteners) is obviously rough , but it's still early.
I REALLY WONDER how much abuse that bottom-mounted air intake grill is going to take. Speed bumps, road scrapes, etc. Also, I live in Las Vegas, and I know that in summer the road asphalt surfaces reach up to 160ºF in temperature. That's not going to be a good baseline temp for cooling down the battery, I'm guessing. This intake design is the tech decision that most concerns me so far. What are your thoughts on it?
With twin radiators I’m surprised they put the single scoop down low as opposed to twin scoops further up/on each side (one feeding each radiator). Still time to test/improve if they haven’t tooled the dorsal panels yet.
I think this confirms they can't achieve 10 miles/kWh and have to do irresponsible things like this trying to get to their marketing claim. Similar for excessively low wheel pants.
@artsmith103 Aptera does not get snow. One morning, years ago, I took my wife’s Smart Car down our 12 pitch driveway before it was plowed. The Smart had a polyethylene pan underneath and it took off like the kid’s sled it was! An Aptera with that underbelly in the same situation would be an awesome ride. People talk about a trailer hitch. They’ll need a carrier hook. The wheel pants might make great runners.
@bobhellman8676 Even with a lot of plowing effort, eventually the bottom 3rd of our driveway ices over from freeze/thaw cycles. Front wheel drive studed tires can't get up. Back up the truck at the top and pull a tow strap down under the car to its rear hitch and pull it up the hill. Spend the next day with a sledge hammer breaking the ice out. You know, a lot of cars now don't have Front tow hooks.
They raised the price to $40K and my build is $45K. A $10K jump in price is too much for me. Plus the vehicle is too low to ground now and wont make it thru a Nebraska winter.
Interesting, thanks Steve. At 6:39 in regards to air intake, do you know if that is for drive and battery cooling, and cabin Air Conditioning and heating correct? And the cabin air intake is in the cowl gap below the wipers correct? I've noticed from driving low vehicles with sloping noses that divert air from close to the road surface, also divert exhaust gases, dust and even cigarette and cannabis smoke into the cabin air intake where as in blunt nose vehicle more air is diverted around and below the vehicle, and I would expect Aptera to be likewise. As for the rear air intake, From doing some CFD modeling on aircraft and my own design for a 2-place light EV, I;m in Solidworks, I would expect the recessed rear air intake would be in a low pressure area and largerly out of a laminar flow area, and a may be used to draw air in when needed and likely not a big drag producer. I'm surprised they used a blunt scoop rather than a flush NACA duct as in aircraft, as it would effectively eliminate drag be likely be less complex design wise. Also, from the CFD vehicle modeling I've done, air velocity and pressure is greatest under the vehicle In my design similar to Aptera 60mph air accelerates to 80+ mph at the lowest part of the belly. and where the belly swoops up slows to about 50mph. If you or anyone is interested I can share some images and video. And if anyone knows has or knows of an accurate Apteria 3D model I could pop it in a Solidworks wind-tunnel model and look at some models.
@@artsmith103 How so? I did not use the words "Rear Exhaust"? What I was referring to was ' exhaust gases, dust and even cigarette and cannabis smoke' emitting from from vehicles on the road ahead that is directed up and into cabin air intakes. IE: "I've noticed from driving low vehicles with sloping noses that divert air from close to the road surface, also divert exhaust gases, dust and even cigarette and cannabis smoke into the cabin air intake where as in blunt nose vehicle more air is diverted around and below the vehicle, and I would expect Aptera to be likewise. "
Thanks for the coverage. I saw the bottom air intake and my reaction was not unlike Seinfeld when he notices his beautiful date has 'man hands'. I live in the PNW and with the amount of rain we get that scoop is going to need a snorkel. It does appear that the intake is past the 'nadir' of the belly so it isn't the lowest point of the vehicle. Perhaps they have done heavy wet road simulations and know that it won't be an issue but I am very concerned by it. I hope I'm wrong.
I wonder if water is going to effect anything that might be in that vent scoop that's on the bottom , because if it's raining water might get in there from the tires kicking up water or if there's some type of puddle of water on the street and the splash might cause water to go into the vent , or it could cause water build up in there
Maybe would need a few drain holes like the rest of the bodywork has. Driving the intake through snowdrifts might be another matter. I can easily live and deal with everything I see so far.
@ronfarnsworth7074 yeah , hopefully they do add some drainage holes , cause if they don't all types of buildup can happen in there especially if dust/dirt gets in there while there's water , if anything they could've used the vents that on the back instead of the bottom
I really think they should look at other kinds of funding.... surely, taking payment for a vehicle in advance would open the way forward to mass production....
Did you sit in it? If so, then it is not too difficult to put different seats in a vehicle. I have done it several times. If you didn't sit in it, what are you complaining about? He said most cars feel that way to him.
For those of you wondering, "Production Intent" means they intend to produce it one day in the future once they have the means. Sort of like a nearly completed prototype.
Had a Tesla Model X as a 2 day loaner. It had a yoke instead of a round wheel. I did not like it at all, especially when driving slow. They should have a round wheel option at least.
Aptera should really think about licensing FSD and adding a model with the cameras and computers. You go from a niche product that a few enthusiasts will buy as a secondary fun vehicle to a minimalistic alternative to the Cybercab, with the same potential market, but that isn't reliant on the infrastructure of charging pads to recharge. Just sit around in the sun close to busy destinations while waiting to be hailed.
Until Aptera ever demonstrates their claims, good estimate for most of USA is 20 solar miles/day. About $0.50/day. Not really a business plan. At $40K or more, Aptera is a disappointing compromise to TSLA M3 and MY and soon maybe Telo.
Looks great, but I have two big concerns... First, the seats look incredibly unsupportive (they look almost flat on both the upper and lower sections!) Second, the air intake looks like it's likely in a spot which could easily get clogged with snow and slush.
Yay, Steve. A momentous occassion for you getting out and about doing in person stuff for your channel, and of course aptera being at CES. A great video despite the audio issues which the official aptera channel also had issues with. Two things. What "exhaust" were you talking about when commenting on the rear? With regards to cork. If it were as semi-permeable as I believe you are thinking, I believe it would not be used to keep alcohol in bottles
Seems like DOT regulations would prevent me from making custom upcycled skateboard pedals for folks, but otherwise I could do it happily in low-moderate volume for folks like me who want them.
I know these are PI vehicles, INTENT for production, but I wonder if anything was rushed for CES, or wondering what a whole list of what is production tooled and what is not final tooling yet looks like. To be clear, I am SO excited for this car and I would buy it right now in this state for the money absolutely. But I am curious. Examples of my questions: At 3:04, what is that goop at the top of the cover? At 3:58, are the holes next to the CPC lettering that are way larger than the bolts temporary, or is that in final tooling and there will be a gap and washers needed?
Is it stable with just 3 wheels though? In rough terrain, large banks, or weight concentrate towards the back? It won't cause the apterra to tip over and end up on two wheels, with the third off the floor?
No it has not been tested. An earlier prototype was filmed by Aptera doing the moose test. It clearly had weight stacks on its front suspension. The current design has not been tested and is very different from the earlier model. Might be better, might be worse.
I've thought this from early renderings, yet wanted to wait til closer to PI unveiling. What are your thoughts on this vehicle's width clearing say, a bank teller or fast food drive thru? Any immediate concerns? Also, thanks for your consistent coverage on Aptera 💪💯
Thanks, Steve! I missed you by 15 minutes. Guess you went to do some editing for this video. Any idea what time the announcements are Wednesday morning?
In your video, you showed the air intake underneath. Do we know if this is an air cooled battery? If so, is there any issues with this in winter? And does it have any mechanism for battery warming?
So from what I can tell is this would probably make a good recreation vehicle but not a daily driver, and definitely not for bad weather or bad roads. Maybe as a companion for RV vacations if it can be towed anyways.
When you said air intake, for some reason my brain registered it as "air in" and I'm thinking "What!?... I have to get underneath the car to put air in the tires!???" 😮💨 It's late, I need to get to bed, my brain isn't working. 😂😂😂😂
The space in back is nice. In case I ever need to live in my Aptera "down by the river".
🤣
As long as you don't try to close the hatch.
@@CharlesAnsmanit would be fine.
Some backpacking tents have less space
Well you're gonna have plenty of time living in an Aptera down by the river.... when... you're living in an Aptera DOWN BY THE RIVER! (Chris Farley RIP).
😂😂😂
The choice to put the air intake under the vehicle is unfortunate and highlights the fair weather focus the Aptera team has. Perhaps they are succumbing to the pressure to get a vehicle out the door no matter what concessions they have to make. One of the things I liked about the Aptera was that it had a smooth undercarriage so deep snow would have less of an effect on its operation. With the air scope under the vehicle, it will quickly clog up with snow and ice in the winter. Have they never seen the amount of snow and ice that builds up in wheel wells in current cars? I hope they change this before my vehicle is ready.
This is the motorcycle, it is not using in winter
I immediately thought the same thing (we live in the Pacific Northwest now, and we love skiing and snowy road trips)
It doesn't seem like a difficult fix: maybe split it into two separate similarly-sized scoops and push them toward the sides just enough that they are not the lowest things on the belly, and that would make me feel much better about it. They would still be unobtrusive, still look cool if you're looking for them, and they would be much easier to clean if the occasion arose. Plus would give you almost twice the airflow (I imagine they would shrink a bit in the move).
And dust and mud.
As much as I love many things about the Aptera, this is a big problem for me as I live in a place with snowy roads much of the year. If Aptera wants widespread appeal they can't design just for southern California. I wish Aptera the best, but they will have to change this.
Looks like an expedient solution. It's gonna need a snorkle
Thanks Steve for posting this. I'd just like to add that in Aptera's own release they admit that this is a nonfunctioning prototype assembled for show. They would not open the hood. They supposedly have another one somewhere at the show that is going to be giving rides to the faithful. That's the one I hope you can really focus on.
Someone should secretly chalk the tires to track if it ever moves. Remember a week ago when fanboys were expecting to go for rides?
@@artsmith103 Yes, it's all an elaborate scam.... in the Trolly-McTroll boy brain-box. Thanks for making the world safe from these grifters! Damn, that was close. I was thinking about investing a little more, and you saved me from such foolishness! I can't figure out why they are spending so much time on details and expensive production when it's just a scam. They must hope to sell some of these. Oh, the horror!
"they admit"... "supposedly" well, it certainly sounds damning when you put it like that!
@@GullWingInnMoclips Uhhh. I never said it was a scam. I said the working model is out at the street.
@@artsmith103 Pretty sure it won't move unless they roll it.
I love that there is a "dead pedal" for driver's left-foot; my MINI COOPER has one and its perfect for planting your foot through turns, heavy-braking or otherwise just the feel of having your legs out the same-length as on-the-gas-pedal.
That actually for me getting in and out of the vehicle. You place your right foot on it as you sit in. Once seated, you pivot your legs and body to center yourself behind the wheel. This is how real men get into low profile vehicles.
Love you giving the blow by blow of what is 3d printed and what isn't to get a feel of how far they are on production part tooling.
The belly air scoop reminds me of the one on the P51 Mustang fighter plane. Cool!
Exactly, soon as I saw that I thought "wow, this thing really is an aircraft now", such a distinctive feature and a really cool look (as if it needed more!!😂)
It sure looks cool, but I am concerned about the intake getting filled with road debris, snow/ice, or even dirt and plants if taken onto an unpaved road. Hopefully they can demonstrate that it won't be much of an issue.
@@mrtriathlondudeGreat point
Exactly!!! Love that P51-D shape with the turbo scoop that helped so much to turn the tides of WWII on both the European and Pacific fronts. It sounds awesome too! (@5:00 mark of th-cam.com/video/_LWFk6W5EYQ/w-d-xo.html).
I'm gonna really love my Aptera! This is the coolest thing in the world!
That was what I was wanting to see! The CAR!....Thank you so much!
I wonder if the belly scoop will ingest snow/road debris?
It will indeed. It is also the lowest point on the belly, so first object to hit if the car bottoms out.
As I said to @mrtriathlondude : Split it into two separate scoops and push them toward the sides just enough that they are not the lowest things on the belly, and that would make me feel much better about it. They would still be unobtrusive, still look cool if you're looking for them, and they would be much easier to clean if the occasion arose.
Concur. Looks problematic. Almost certainly would be a contact point on speed bumps, etc.
I hope this vehicle thrives.
What a great Concept that was in 2006 - still just Prototypes in 2025.
I'm quite confident they will hit the 20th anniversary without selling one car to a Customer.
Or is there anyone in this "Aptera Owners' Club" who really owns one?
Voiceover works better than scratchy "live commentary." All good.
Honestly.
Kinda sucks for Steve to have to narrate reduce tho lol
Thanks Steve. Interesting info about the cooling air handling.
Can't wait to hear how the change effects the drag. I'm keeping my fingers crossed, hoping it's not too bad.
What an incredible vehicle. I can't wait to see one on the road from behind the steering wheel because I own it!
Thanks for all the closeup details Steve. Almost like being there. Beautiful.
Thanks Steve. I appreciate the detailed coverage talking about what is ready for production and the bits that were 3D printed for the show. The revised cooling system is interesting. We will have to see how it affect the EV's drag and overall efficiency.
@@deanmcmanis9398 don't it will do much damage to the aero
Thank you for the close ups!! Love that you reclined inside the back of the vehicle. Great fun.
Thank you so much for posting this. I am so excited for this car to come out and the detail is awesome so looking forward to the rest of the videos about the car.
LOVE that huge dead pedal. Being able to brace my pelvis while driving is a big help for my back pain.
I'm a bit disappointed at the number of fabricated parts at this point, especially the polycarbonate solar panels.
The vulnerability of the underside air scoop worries me, especially on rutted, gravel roads or in slushy conditions. I hope they can make the skin cooling work eventually.
The closer they get to production the happier I am that since I am Canadian, there will be time for them to work out some of these issues before they start delivering up here.
They've really got to subject this thing to different real life conditions. We don't all live in CA. That air intake is worrisome for different conditions like rain and plastic bags that I'm always finding myself straddling and then checking the rearview to make sure it didn't get caught under my car
I kinda feel foolish to even mention snow... But on a day like today where probably half the US is having snowy roads... 🤔
Remember when they went to the recent San Fran event and a few of them said they had never been that far north?
With awd it will be fine in the snow.
Tires make the biggest difference.
@@rebeccadubois8270 what happens when that intake gets caked up with snow and ice and salt?
I guess it won't need cooling when there's snow?
Thinking there should be some form of display feature to inform us Midwesterners of airflow into the system. Perhaps % of airflow or exit temperature. Snow and slush gonna be an issue so would be nice to know when I have to send passenger out to lay in the crap to clear the obstruction.😂
4:15 I'm disappointed the skateboard isn't happening there.
Yeah me too. Maybe an aftermarket opportunity? If not, I may try to fashion my own.
Yeah, they long intimated they were no longer going with that. I don't know, something about mass production.
That scoop looks like the one on the bottom of the firefighting planes that fly just above the lake to allow it to scoop water into the tanks without landing to refill
Not good in the case of water in the road ….,
Snow will block it immediately on the grill but might not be immediate issue for cooling in winter !
I am a small stock holder
Yeah, my thought as well. Probably don't need battery cooling in the winter. I wonder the air scoop is being used for cabin air as well.
By the time most of us will get our turn purchasing there will be many more developments including am hoping the 1000 mile range. Like even say 800 mile range is a lot lot lot range with quick charge. And 800 dropping extreme by 50% in freeze...to 400 mile range, still a lot lot lots of range!
Exactly. By the time they make all these changes, actually get tooling into their empty "factory", and start selling them in 40 years, I'm sure they will have everything figured out by then. 🤣
I want this so much !!!! Waiting for car in the netherlands !!! .. been on my mind for over 14 years
Thanks for sharing. Always enjoy you videos.
Man on the scene! Looking forward to much more. Thanks Steve!
Thanks Steve for the great coverage, as always. This is the first time seeing the belly air scoop. I'm sure Aptera ran the aero-analysis and the drag hit is probably low. Sorry the live feed didn't work out this morning but you made it on the Aptera feed. Way to go Aptera!
Hope I’m wrong, but it looks like it could get easily plugged with wet snow.
@@paulrybarczyk5013 My thought exactly. Not certain it would last a mile on snowy / sloppy roads. I was definitely not intending the Aptera to be a nice weather only vehicle.
Anyone know if it's included on the diecast model? I just ordered one... Maybe an avenue for some 3D printed mods in future for the true scale enthusiasts 😉
@@paulrybarczyk5013 I guess the vent wouldn't be needed in cold weather though, it's all good.
Whathappens when the front wheels go through big puddles, or just driving on wet roads for some time - this looks like a problem area to me.....
Aptera Let's Go 🎉🎉🎉
Awesome! We'll be waiting for more info as they come through. Thanks for keeping us informed.
Thanks so much for your coverage at CES Steve! I admit I am disappointed at the belly scoop air intake and bottom facing exhaust. In addition to increased drag, I believe they may collect a lot of water and road grime. Time and testing will tell, but I hope it does not end up being a high maintenance cleaning issue.
Agreed. Probably ok for sunny California and similar sunny dry locations, but may be an issue in snowy northern areas with the road grime or snow and slush, and improperly maintained (gravel) roads.
Reminds me of cleaning the undersides of aircraft. Which if you’ve ever done, accumulates a good amount of grime quickly. Driving in normal weather might not be so bad but rain and snow will likely lead to buildup that will need to regularly be cleaned
@@keylargo1101 My concerns exactly. We are in central Wisconsin and plan to have Aptera as our only, daily driving vehicle. Real winter here.
@@shinyy187 I have cleaned the underside of aircraft also and understand that well. Great comparison. Being in Wisconsin, I guess winter is the biggest concern. Drag for daily driving.
A lot of discussion on here about this feature... myself, I can't see anything inline ahead of the intake to kick up water/grime and stuff, the front wheels also having a very wide stance (unless you happen to be following something with a messy "wake" - think pickup or semi), in the aircraft situation it's generally the prop wash that sprays everything up off the runway too, so again, not quite the same here... a great subject for an entire video @ApteraOwnersClub !
Looks amazing. Not 100% what I wanted but I'm still super excited.
The hub motors?
@BigRecio I wanted AWD. Still do. Hub motors I was worried about but liked the idea. My biggest concern has always been how well will it handle the snow even with AWD? I also want to know real world driving conditions. I drive about 45 miles to work. (90 round trip) I love in Southern New Hampshire. What will my range be in the cold. This time of year when the days are short? And what will it be like 6 months from now? How much mileage will I use running the heat? I'm excited for Aptera but I have lots of questions and concerns that probably won't be answered until people start buying them and test. them for real.
@@BigRecio They announced that Elaphe would NOT be supplying hub motors immediately some time ago. This results in a major simplification in the cooling system for initial production, but likely impact ride in two ways - it is probably less rigid over bumps, but the traction control may not be as good.
@@BigRecio There are no hub motors. Design change in 2024 to single electric motor front wheel drive only.
They said they will have the rear hub motor in future production. If not I will not buy one. My reservation 22,000 something.
I prefer the inboard single front motor.
Crazy SPACE MACHINE!
That just might win the hearts & minds of millions.
You got me proper!
( I started the Australian 356 Porsche Registry in '86 with a friend.... SUPER APTERA! )
thank you for the honest review
Yes, and appreciate comments on the seats… hopefully something easily remedied (eg, tilt mechanism to adjust thigh support?).
Seats can always be replaced or refitted if they don't float your boat.
Steve, great job on the overview!
I liked the copper connects so much better. investor here.
You might not have liked them as much once they turned green.
Me too, I want the copper glow. Feels hot!
@@glennzajic7318the panels are laminated so the copper shouldn't oxidize
Love it and thanks for sharing Steve!
My body is ready
If you're on dirt tracks with grass down the middle that air intake may be dragging through it. Same with snow I guess.
I had my Ora fitted with a stone guard and at 125mm clearance it does get used. Aptera is slightly higher.
Steve, many thanks. I was a bit underwhelmed by the reveal because I had understood that the particular build on display was missing significant parts, like the battery pack, therefore making it undrivable. Was there another PI build at CES which was drivable?
You think they left that out!?
@artsmith103 what?
Thanks to Steve for this useful video. Here is a though-the air scoop--will this get blocked by ice, snow, leaves or road kill parts?
Just fyi to all the vehicle Steve is checking out is not a functioning Aptera. It is simply a display model.
But simultaneously they have a functioning one driving people around in Las Vegas.
@adimchionyenadum2962 That's the one to see. The prototype Aptera took to Jay Leno looked fine just standing in his garage, looked very chintzy when out on the road. There is a reason the wheelpants have received all that scrutiny over the years.
Thanks to AOC fro coming through for us as usual and with a balanced review! Similar to the Gamma reveal where the vehicle was not 100% a gamma. Not really production intent as some parts are not produced by production tooling. Biggest negative is solar panels are not all glass laminated. Still dev work and expense before ready for prime time/customer production. Capital acquisition even more important at this point. From another video, no drive train or battery in the display Aptera. (Nothing under the hood) This is now the biggest negative of the PI4. Disappointing.
It's very close though, and that's a great sign.
Yes, not all solar panel areas being glass was my take away from this as well. I hope that they will be glass by the time sales start.
Yes, but there is a production intent battery and a fully functional drive train in PI2 (Hermes) that is presently giving folks test drives. That is absolutely complementary. What one lacks, the other supplies. I don't think there is anything disappointing about that. Aptera made it clear there were going to be these complementary role of the PI build on the show.
YOU are disappointed. Seems petty in the face of all the progress they have made.
A lot of compromises made and not anywhere close to production ready. Unfortunately I found this video disappointing as well. Trying to stay hopeful though, would really love to drive one before I retire!
That air intake on dirt roads is gonna cause a mess.
I wonder how much impact the scoop will have when it comes to water. How much water can the Aptera go through without any issues.
Thanks for posting this!
Does anyone else have an unsettled feeling about PI-4? I really was hoping that it would be a build that knocked it out to the park. Actual production intent not flimsy 3D printed parts or a solar package that is not all glass? They were to have the ability to make the solar panels there in CA. They are making panels for other companies, why use old panels when they claimed to have the ability to make the top and rear hatch panels? The air intake on the bottom of the vehicle is going to get packed with snow. The front tires will splash snow to the center of the vehicle and that air intake is going to suck that snow and ice in and plug within minutes.
Is the polymer rear hatch an "old panel"? No. It's a newly made stand-in for the actual panel to be made later from glass. This is a very large piece with a reverse compound curve. It looks impressive as is. It must be less expensive to use this to test the solar output than tooling up for glass at this point. Glad I could help.
I have a huge unsettled feeling. Since they have placed all their eggs in the "Solar Mobility Basket" one would think that would be a focus of their efforts. There has been alot of bragging about solar panels being a core competency yet no PI panels?
It seems to me like NACA scoops for the air intake might be the most aerodynamic.
I thought the same thing, but I assume they had their reasons.
Thanks for the awesome work to have a CES show vehicle.
Excellent video and information! Thank you!!!!
I wanted an AWD model so it won’t be me, but I can’t wait for someone who has to drive in snow to get one of these to see how it goes. I’ve filled many engine bays with snow, would that belly intake being plugged with ice be a problem? Aside from that, congrats to the team on another step on the winding road to production.
I'm driving from Los Angeles to Vegas tomorrow morning for the CES. I didn't rent a hotel because I'll be camping in my Tesla MYP parked in some hotel parking lot. Truck stops are are best for shower facilities. Set my Tesla on camping mode, put up my window panels and zzzzzzzzz. It's actually quite fun. I can't wait to do this in my Aptera.
Like the phone charger, glad to see that a phone can be plugged in and stored in there. The slot for passing the charging cord through is a nice touch. Very well thought out!
And could easily tape/epoxy a wireless charger on the inside of the door if you'd rather not deal with a cable. I like it!
Super cool to see it coming to fruition!
I hope they give you a run through of the software and display this week...BTW tell them we want to see some solar charging numbers from a Full Moon!
Editrd: The body, including the air intake looks great. I think the decision to go with CPC for the body was a wise one.
After rethinking the air scoop placement. I don't think they will fair we'll in a place like New England.
This is how creepy the interwebs are. I’m at CES having lunch at Siegel’s Bagelmania and the Aptera pulls up right outside the window where we’re sitting. I mention to my colleague that I’m having lunch with “Cool…the new Aptera just pulled up”. About 5 minutes later I turn on my iPad (it was O-F-F) and open TH-cam. This was the 1st video in my feed. I’ve never shown an interest in Aptera before. Go figure.
I believe you are already the luckiest man of 2025. Go for iit, mate! Go Aptera!
Time to buy one
Please talk about 2 things: 1) are the carbon fiber dusty or is that the look. Everywhere black looks dirty. 2) is only the front going to be glass cover for the solar panels or is the top and back also going to be? Thank you!
If I remember correctly, all the panels are supposed to be glass covered.
That is a trick of the camera.
Could you already see the infotainment and software on the screen as well?
The air scoop will find objects. Curb, speed bumps, road debris (especially in rural areas).
Aside from that... looks decent. Fit/finish on the trunk area (and mirror fasteners) is obviously rough , but it's still early.
add a CB radio to it, and for HAM radio operators add a 2meter band radio. lets go Aptera
Thanks Steve!
Thank You!
First time seeing the Aptera in person, loved it except it's a bit smaller than what I was expecting.
I REALLY WONDER how much abuse that bottom-mounted air intake grill is going to take. Speed bumps, road scrapes, etc. Also, I live in Las Vegas, and I know that in summer the road asphalt surfaces reach up to 160ºF in temperature. That's not going to be a good baseline temp for cooling down the battery, I'm guessing. This intake design is the tech decision that most concerns me so far. What are your thoughts on it?
Just curious Steve but do you have any interviews planned with Aptera? Need to hear about their future funding and tooling plans.
I saw AOC interviewing Steve Fambro in Aptera Motors official stream. So, expect more from him.
The center console storage needs to be able to close with a charging cord hanging out of it 🔌
Only 6 inch of clearance makes me nervous 🤔
With twin radiators I’m surprised they put the single scoop down low as opposed to twin scoops further up/on each side (one feeding each radiator).
Still time to test/improve if they haven’t tooled the dorsal panels yet.
I’d worry about mud and debris (think road kill 😳) getting in it.
@mk1st It does feature a possum-size intake!
I think this confirms they can't achieve 10 miles/kWh and have to do irresponsible things like this trying to get to their marketing claim. Similar for excessively low wheel pants.
@artsmith103 Aptera does not get snow.
One morning, years ago, I took my wife’s Smart Car down our 12 pitch driveway before it was plowed. The Smart had a polyethylene pan underneath and it took off like the kid’s sled it was!
An Aptera with that underbelly in the same situation would be an awesome ride.
People talk about a trailer hitch. They’ll need a carrier hook.
The wheel pants might make great runners.
@bobhellman8676 Even with a lot of plowing effort, eventually the bottom 3rd of our driveway ices over from freeze/thaw cycles. Front wheel drive studed tires can't get up. Back up the truck at the top and pull a tow strap down under the car to its rear hitch and pull it up the hill. Spend the next day with a sledge hammer breaking the ice out. You know, a lot of cars now don't have Front tow hooks.
They raised the price to $40K and my build is $45K. A $10K jump in price is too much for me. Plus the vehicle is too low to ground now and wont make it thru a Nebraska winter.
Interesting, thanks Steve. At 6:39 in regards to air intake, do you know if that is for drive and battery cooling, and cabin Air Conditioning and heating correct? And the cabin air intake is in the cowl gap below the wipers correct? I've noticed from driving low vehicles with sloping noses that divert air from close to the road surface, also divert exhaust gases, dust and even cigarette and cannabis smoke into the cabin air intake where as in blunt nose vehicle more air is diverted around and below the vehicle, and I would expect Aptera to be likewise.
As for the rear air intake, From doing some CFD modeling on aircraft and my own design for a 2-place light EV, I;m in Solidworks, I would expect the recessed rear air intake would be in a low pressure area and largerly out of a laminar flow area, and a may be used to draw air in when needed and likely not a big drag producer. I'm surprised they used a blunt scoop rather than a flush NACA duct as in aircraft, as it would effectively eliminate drag be likely be less complex design wise.
Also, from the CFD vehicle modeling I've done, air velocity and pressure is greatest under the vehicle In my design similar to Aptera 60mph air accelerates to 80+ mph at the lowest part of the belly. and where the belly swoops up slows to about 50mph. If you or anyone is interested I can share some images and video. And if anyone knows has or knows of an accurate Apteria 3D model I could pop it in a Solidworks wind-tunnel model and look at some models.
Rear exhaust? You better check your SolidWorks settings.
@@artsmith103 How so? I did not use the words "Rear Exhaust"? What I was referring to was ' exhaust gases, dust and even cigarette and cannabis smoke' emitting from from vehicles on the road ahead that is directed up and into cabin air intakes.
IE:
"I've noticed from driving low vehicles with sloping noses that divert air from close to the road surface, also divert exhaust gases, dust and even cigarette and cannabis smoke into the cabin air intake where as in blunt nose vehicle more air is diverted around and below the vehicle, and I would expect Aptera to be likewise. "
Thanks for the coverage. I saw the bottom air intake and my reaction was not unlike Seinfeld when he notices his beautiful date has 'man hands'. I live in the PNW and with the amount of rain we get that scoop is going to need a snorkel. It does appear that the intake is past the 'nadir' of the belly so it isn't the lowest point of the vehicle. Perhaps they have done heavy wet road simulations and know that it won't be an issue but I am very concerned by it. I hope I'm wrong.
A few drain holes like the rest of the bodywork has aren't a big deal.
I wonder if water is going to effect anything that might be in that vent scoop that's on the bottom , because if it's raining water might get in there from the tires kicking up water or if there's some type of puddle of water on the street and the splash might cause water to go into the vent , or it could cause water build up in there
Maybe would need a few drain holes like the rest of the bodywork has. Driving the intake through snowdrifts might be another matter.
I can easily live and deal with everything I see so far.
@ronfarnsworth7074 yeah , hopefully they do add some drainage holes , cause if they don't all types of buildup can happen in there especially if dust/dirt gets in there while there's water , if anything they could've used the vents that on the back instead of the bottom
@@Jose.Q_ There may be drainage there now for all I know.
@@ronfarnsworth7074 could be , time will tell once they already have a finish product and they talk about everything that they done
Oh, i don't like the location of that air intake. I'm thinking about when it snows, or even road debris getting snagged there.
I really think they should look at other kinds of funding.... surely, taking payment for a vehicle in advance would open the way forward to mass production....
Just make sure you have a really good late delivery clause and a rock solid price. Could be a good retirement annuity.
Very disappointed in the seat. That’s crucial for comfort. Cant believe that the best they can do .
Did you sit in it? If so, then it is not too difficult to put different seats in a vehicle. I have done it several times. If you didn't sit in it, what are you complaining about? He said most cars feel that way to him.
@@GullWingInnMoclips I mean they look really flat like seats from a 1960's car.
@@jeffreywilliamson4863 "I mean" sure thing, don't buy one because of the seats.. more for the rest of us.
There are still a lot of finishing details that need attention.
And that 'third time's the charm' to open the door needs to be resolved!
I almost cannot wait for the test drive...
For those of you wondering, "Production Intent" means they intend to produce it one day in the future once they have the means. Sort of like a nearly completed prototype.
Production Intention with infinite fundation!
Had a Tesla Model X as a 2 day loaner. It had a yoke instead of a round wheel. I did not like it at all, especially when driving slow. They should have a round wheel option at least.
Aptera should really think about licensing FSD and adding a model with the cameras and computers. You go from a niche product that a few enthusiasts will buy as a secondary fun vehicle to a minimalistic alternative to the Cybercab, with the same potential market, but that isn't reliant on the infrastructure of charging pads to recharge. Just sit around in the sun close to busy destinations while waiting to be hailed.
Until Aptera ever demonstrates their claims, good estimate for most of USA is 20 solar miles/day. About $0.50/day. Not really a business plan.
At $40K or more, Aptera is a disappointing compromise to TSLA M3 and MY and soon maybe Telo.
"Hopefully before the end of 2025" Getting a little worried when he starts talking like that.
Looks great, but I have two big concerns... First, the seats look incredibly unsupportive (they look almost flat on both the upper and lower sections!) Second, the air intake looks like it's likely in a spot which could easily get clogged with snow and slush.
Agree, snow, slush, ice, mud, stones, solid water - I don’t get it.
Not to mention the front wheel pants so close to the ground, they'll get scraped off on the first speed bump.
@@oldschoolman1444 It would take a very "aggressive" speedbump......
Yay, Steve. A momentous occassion for you getting out and about doing in person stuff for your channel, and of course aptera being at CES. A great video despite the audio issues which the official aptera channel also had issues with. Two things. What "exhaust" were you talking about when commenting on the rear? With regards to cork. If it were as semi-permeable as I believe you are thinking, I believe it would not be used to keep alcohol in bottles
Seems like DOT regulations would prevent me from making custom upcycled skateboard pedals for folks, but otherwise I could do it happily in low-moderate volume for folks like me who want them.
I know these are PI vehicles, INTENT for production, but I wonder if anything was rushed for CES, or wondering what a whole list of what is production tooled and what is not final tooling yet looks like. To be clear, I am SO excited for this car and I would buy it right now in this state for the money absolutely. But I am curious.
Examples of my questions:
At 3:04, what is that goop at the top of the cover?
At 3:58, are the holes next to the CPC lettering that are way larger than the bolts temporary, or is that in final tooling and there will be a gap and washers needed?
What's your maximum price, minimum miles/kWh, minimum kWh/day package threshold?
Did you get to test drive one of the PI?
Finally! Let’s start delivering it.
Those seats need some more contouring (bolstering). Too flat. Also that charge port door is not giving me any confidence. I'll wait for the next PI
Im 5'4" plenty of room for me to sleep in.
Is it stable with just 3 wheels though? In rough terrain, large banks, or weight concentrate towards the back? It won't cause the apterra to tip over and end up on two wheels, with the third off the floor?
New here?
It already passes slalom
@@rebeccadubois8270 Under favorable conditions.
No it has not been tested. An earlier prototype was filmed by Aptera doing the moose test. It clearly had weight stacks on its front suspension. The current design has not been tested and is very different from the earlier model. Might be better, might be worse.
Radiator inlet looks risky for road trash.
I've thought this from early renderings, yet wanted to wait til closer to PI unveiling. What are your thoughts on this vehicle's width clearing say, a bank teller or fast food drive thru? Any immediate concerns?
Also, thanks for your consistent coverage on Aptera 💪💯
It looks so dang good
Thanks, Steve! I missed you by 15 minutes. Guess you went to do some editing for this video. Any idea what time the announcements are Wednesday morning?
Please bring them to Australia. I’d order one today if you are.
In your video, you showed the air intake underneath. Do we know if this is an air cooled battery? If so, is there any issues with this in winter? And does it have any mechanism for battery warming?
That intake is for the motor radiator. I don't know if it serves other uses. Quite certain the battery is liquid cooled.
Hey Steve, did you see on the website they changed the delivery dates again to TBA instead of 2026?
For which orders?
@@adimchionyenadum2962 All of them but I assume the launch edition is the first to be delivered. 400 mile range model.
@@adimchionyenadum2962I'm pretty sure it's for the launch edition with 400 mile range, all the other versions come later.
So from what I can tell is this would probably make a good recreation vehicle but not a daily driver, and definitely not for bad weather or bad roads. Maybe as a companion for RV vacations if it can be towed anyways.
You’d likely have to put the Aptera on a trailer if you intend to tow it.
I WANT one !
That air intake looks like it would scoop up lots of water in rainy weather or if you hit a puddle
When you said air intake, for some reason my brain registered it as "air in" and I'm thinking "What!?... I have to get underneath the car to put air in the tires!???" 😮💨 It's late, I need to get to bed, my brain isn't working. 😂😂😂😂
You're the kind of potential customer Aptera is looking for!! They'll be in touch soon!