"Insights on Carbon Fiber at Aptera's Electrify Expo 2024"

Aptera at Electrify Expo Vancouver 2024 - Aptera Owners Club

IMG_0370.jpeg

Notes

  • 14:57 - Carbon Fiber Production
    • Note: The process of making carbon fiber begins with oil, which is refined into a precursor material. The oil isn’t burned. In the case of the Aptera, it ultimately becomes a solar electric vehicle.
    • Thoughts: Understanding the production of carbon fiber is essential as it highlights the sustainability aspect of electric vehicle manufacturing. Experimentation with different precursor materials could lead to more eco-friendly practices.
  • 14:57 - Recycling Carbon Fiber
    • Note: The carbon fiber material is recyclable.
    • Additional Info: Recycling carbon fiber can significantly reduce waste and promote a circular economy in the automotive industry. Innovations in this area are crucial for reducing the environmental impact.
  • 17:54 - Properties of Carbon Fiber
    • Quote: "Carbon fiber is perfect! It never warps, it never moves..." - Sandy Monroe
    • Thoughts: This statement suggests the superior stability of carbon fiber compared to other materials. Its reliability could be a key selling point for electric vehicles, particularly in performance and longevity.
  • 18:07 - Sheet Metal Properties
    • Note: Sheet metal can bend and warp; welding introduces stresses.
    • Thoughts: Understanding the limitations of sheet metal is important for design considerations. Alternative materials like carbon fiber can provide advantages in structural integrity.
  • 20:03 - Carbon Fiber and SMC
    • Note: When using carbon fiber with Sheet Molding Compound (SMC), the properties can be modeled similar to steel.
    • Additional Info: This suggests that carbon fiber can be engineered to attain desirable qualities found in traditional materials, which could enhance vehicle design and performance while keeping weight low.

Reference:

aptera.us
Aptera Joins Forces with C.P.C. Group to Accelerate Production
www.youtube.com
Aptera's evolution from sandwich core composite to forged carbon ...
www.compositesworld.com
SMC composites progress BinC solar electric vehicles