The Aptera and the VW GX3 would be very different rides

The Atera and the VW GX3 both are three wheel cars with two front wheels and one back wheel. There the similarity ends. The Aptera was originally designed as an electric car that has added a hybrid twin. The VW is strictly gasoline.

The Aptera gets about 120 miles per charge in the electric concept car or about 230 mpg in the hybrid. Although Aptera will exceed 85 mph and will go from 0 to 60 in under 10 seconds, the car is designed to be safe, affordable, and energy efficient. The futuristic design has greatly improved the aerodynamics to decrease wind resistance and increase fuel efficiency.

The VW GX3 was designed with power in mind to be a ” pure driving machine”. This three wheel convertible, will reach speeds of 125 mph and will go from 0-60 in 5. 7 seconds. The car is mostly engine and gets 46 mpg.

Although the Aptera is classified as a motorcycle, the company has built the car to meet or exceed safety standards as well as include comfort. The car includes airbags, a formula one standard composite safety cage and a reinforced roof and doors that exceed the required safety standards for cars. The instruments include a rear facing camera and GPS as well as a display panel in front of the driver to increase situational awareness without the need to take eyes off the road.

Helmets are not required even though the Aptera is listed as a motorcycle and there is room between the seats to fit a baby seat. The passenger side airbag can be turned off for small children or baby seats placed in the front. The Aptera is also expected to have a stereo system, cup holders, a 12V charger for cell phones and possibly a USB port.

The GX3 emphasizes its motorcycle aspects in many ways. The interior of the car or “cockpit” is sparse with 5 point racing harnesses, motorcycle type instruments and stainless steel shifter. It is a cross between a sports car and a motorcycle with the emphasis on motorcycle.

The body is composed of a high density stainless steel “space frame” over laid with composite fiberglass panels both inside and out. The GX3 includes roll bars and definitely requires helmets.

Not just the interior and exterior amenities differ between the two vehicles but the cost differential is considerable as well. The estimated cost of the Aptera is $26,900 for the all electric version and $29,900 for the hybrid. The VW GX3 is expected to sell for $17,000. The Aptera is clearly the “luxury” version of the three wheel car while the VW GX3 is the “sport” version three wheel vehicle.

Aptera is expected to go into production at the end of this year. The GX3 was expected to be produced in 2007. There is some speculation that the GX3 was shelved due to safety reasons. If so, what a loss.