Electric vehicle startup Aptera Motors has assembled its first five validation models of its distinctive three-wheel, two-seat electric vehicle, marking a significant milestone for the company that has been in development since 2006.

The solar-powered vehicle represents one of the longest development cycles in the automotive industry, spanning nearly two decades as the company has worked to bring its unconventional design to market. The three-wheel configuration and integrated solar panels distinguish Aptera's vehicle from traditional electric cars.

The completion of these validation models represents a critical step in the vehicle development process, allowing the company to test and refine the design before potential mass production. Validation models typically undergo extensive testing to ensure safety, performance, and regulatory compliance.

Aptera's extended development timeline has raised questions about the viability of the project, with the company facing the typical challenges that automotive startups encounter when attempting to scale from concept to production. The automotive industry has seen numerous electric vehicle startups struggle to transition from prototype to commercial manufacturing.

The company's progress comes as the electric vehicle market continues to expand, though most successful entrants have focused on traditional four-wheel designs rather than the three-wheel approach Aptera has pursued.