Aptera-Inmotive Deal Aims to Make Solar-Only Driving Go Further

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In a move that could shift the dynamics of solar electric vehicle (EV) efficiency, Aptera Motors has formed a partnership with Canadian transmission developer Inmotive Inc. The companies are working to integrate Inmotive's Ingear two-speed transmission into Aptera’s production plans. The integration will improve drivetrain efficiency and reduce energy consumption per mile, ultimately extending how far solar power alone can take the vehicle.

Aptera’s design currently enables up to 40 miles of solar-powered driving daily. But by incorporating Inmotive’s transmission system—which has been engineered to reduce energy waste during varying driving conditions—the company is aiming to increase that solar-only range. The move highlights a broader strategy in EV innovation: optimizing existing systems to push performance without expanding battery size.

By requiring less energy per mile, the vehicles could rely even more on their integrated solar arrays, reducing the need for frequent charging and supporting grid independence. This is particularly relevant in regions where the power grid still draws heavily on fossil fuels. The improvements could also open the door to using smaller battery packs, easing supply chain pressure around critical materials like lithium.

Aptera's streamlined, ultra-lightweight vehicles are already engineered for minimal drag. The new partnership adds another layer of optimization, positioning the company to meet increasing demand for cleaner, more cost-effective transport solutions—especially in markets where infrastructure for high-speed charging remains limited.

Market Fit in a Cost-Conscious EV Landscape

As the EV sector grapples with the dual challenges of affordability and performance, Aptera and Inmotive's collaboration highlights a less common but increasingly important focus: mechanical efficiency. Inmotive’s CEO Paul Bottero noted that aligning efficient powertrain systems with solar-integrated EVs offers a route to meaningful gains without over-relying on battery tech advancements.

While many automakers continue to scale up battery capacity and invest in rapid charging networks, Aptera’s bet on solar integration and optimized transmission technology presents an alternative approach, recognizing that sustainable design isn’t just about the energy source but also about how that energy is managed and consumed throughout the vehicle's systems.

The companies are already advancing beyond early-stage development. Aptera plans to evaluate the real-world performance of the Ingear transmission in its next production-intent model as part of a concrete product roadmap aimed at commercial release.

Environment + Energy Leader