This past June, Google.org launched RechargeIT, a philanthropic investment and research program aimed to expedite the adoption of plug-in electric vehicles. Today it was discovered that two companies have made the investment list, and are in store for some serious Google “help” ($2.75 mil) to get their products up and running sooner than later.

The Two RechargeIT investment recipients:

Aptera Motors is building ultra-high efficiency vehicles based on improved aerodynamics and composite materials. Aptera’s first prototype achieved over Read the rest of this entry »

Steve Fambro of Aptera sent out a recent e-mail to Aptera reservation holders reinstating that the goal to start production of the three-wheeled, typ-1 all-electric model is the end of 2008.
Additionally, it was noted that reservations for the two models (hybrid & all-electric) are now being split into two lists (with option to change models):

…I also want to announce a change to the numbered reservation system that will make timing and delivery much clearer to all of you. Right now you have a reservation number based on reservations for both all-electric and plug-in hybrid as we receive them. We think it will be much clearer if we separate these reservations into two lists simply because the two variants have different manufacturing start and vehicle delivery dates.

Before this change goes into effect, we want to give you the opportunity to switch to the all-electric and potentially be driving an Aptera a year earlier than you would otherwise. Our plan is to separate the two lists on July 31, 2008 to give you plenty of time to make a choice. After that you will receive a new Read the rest of this entry »