LG Energy Solution is expanding beyond traditional electric vehicles, securing a deal to supply batteries to Aptera Motors, a US startup developing solar-powered cars. The South Korean battery maker will provide 4.4 gigawatt-hours of cylindrical cells through 2031.
The contract, valued at approximately $440 million, comes as LG Energy seeks to diversify its customer base amid cooling demand in the broader EV market. The company, which ranks third globally in battery production, will manufacture 2170-type cells specifically for Aptera’s distinctive solar-electric vehicle.
Aptera has accumulated over 50,000 pre-orders for its unconventional three-wheeled vehicle, which the company claims can travel up to 643 kilometers on a single charge. The integrated solar panels are designed to provide up to 64 kilometers of daily driving range from sun exposure alone.
The startup plans to begin production in 2025, targeting both the US market and expansion into the United Arab Emirates. South Korean manufacturer CTNS will handle battery module and pack assembly for the project.
While the deal represents a new direction for LG Energy, industry analysts note that Aptera’s success will depend on its ability to deliver on ambitious range promises and navigate the challenges of bringing a novel vehicle design to market.
