The Aptera is here. But what is it?

It’s a high-efficiency vehicle currently in development by Aptera Motors Inc taking pre-orders from California residents (more locales to come, we’re sure). The claimed fuel efficiency is 300mpg at 55mph (0.8 L/100 km at 90 km/h) would make it one of the most fuel-efficient cars in the world. And it looks cool too.

According to the pre-order page, Aptera Motors has set the price at US$26 900 for the all-electric Typ-1e, and US$29 900 for the plug-in hybrid Typ-1h.

As noted in Popular Mechanics after their test drive…

Aptera has two innovative models that are almost production-ready at $30,000 and below: for next year, the all-electric, 120-mile-range Typ-1 e that we drove; and, by 2009, the range-extended series gasoline Typ-1 h, which Aptera says will hit 300 mpg. A more conventional third model, called “Project X” or perhaps Typ-2, is now in the design phase, with plans for a four-wheeled chassis and seating up for to five passengers. For now, though, the Typ-1 will certainly do.

It sure will.