Electric vehicle startup Aptera Motors just raised $33 million from thousands of enthusiastic backers. This caps a months-long crowdfunding effort allowing the first 2,000 buyers to reserve the company’s futuristic three-wheeled solar car.
Rather than traditional financing, Aptera embraced community support to fund initial manufacturing. Supporters ponied up at least $10,000 each for the privilege of securing the first production slots. The campaign accelerated rapidly, raising over $2 million in the final week alone.
One mega-fan even chipped in nearly $4 million to clinch the top reservation. This enormous grassroots response thrilled Aptera staff like community manager Chris McCammon. He said it proves “we’re building a solar-powered vehicle for the people, by the people.”
What sparked such fervor? Aptera’s sleek vehicle promises a 400-mile battery range plus another 40 miles daily from solar panels. This means commuting sans plugging in. One man reserving early, Len Nowak, said he “wanted to provide a better chance to realize this unique vehicle.”
In two years Aptera has raised over $100 million crowdfunding, positioning it to transform transportation. The company says its design responsibly harnesses natural energy, aligning with supporter values.
Co-CEO Chris Anthony said inviting individuals to invest fosters “collective ownership” of both the car and planetary health. Next Aptera needs capital for high-volume manufacturing to meet demand from over 46,000 preorder customers.
The $33 million allows building the first production-intent cars for testing ahead of full output. Supporters call it democratizing not just funding but the future itself – a solar revolution for the people rather than corporations.
This collaborative spirit helps explain the phenomenal engagement. Backers feel personally invested in manifesting a vision for sustainable mobility.
