Aptera Motors has issued purchase orders for the body and chassis of its first 40 production vehicles, marking a shift from validation builds toward manufacturing. The solar mobility company said deliveries of the structural components, which include the chassis frame and suspension, are expected to begin arriving in October, supporting its plan to reach start of production.

Aptera said committing to the components reflects confidence in both the vehicle design and its supply chain, with engineers refining body and chassis specifications based on lessons from validation builds. The company has also taken delivery of solar cells for more than 100 vehicles, adding to the parts it has secured ahead of production.

Chris Anthony, co-chief executive of Aptera, said issuing the purchase orders marks an important step in moving from validation to production, noting the parts are intended for the company’s first customer vehicles. Steve Fambro, co-chief executive, added that seeing suppliers reach these milestones is an encouraging sign as the company continues working toward start of production.

Aptera expects to secure the remaining components for its first vehicles in the coming months, supporting its production timeline. The company said it is also working to complete testing required to secure the regulatory approvals needed to sell its vehicles commercially.

Source: Aptera