California-based Alef Aeronautics is making waves in the Transportation Industry with its innovative electric flying car, the Model A. This two-seater vehicle boasts the ability to operate on public roads as well as take off and land vertically. Recently, Alef Aeronautics received a Special Airworthiness Certificate from the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), allowing the company to further develop and showcase this groundbreaking flying car.
The Model A: A Versatile Flying Car:
Alef Aeronautics’ Model A is a unique blend of a street-legal sports car and an electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. While it can effortlessly navigate roads and fit into standard parking spaces, it also possesses eight hidden propellers and a pivoting driving cabin to ensure stability during flight. The vehicle’s frame can rotate sideways by 90 degrees, transforming the car’s front and back into wings for optimised airborne performance.
FAA Certification and Approval:
Alef Aeronautics proudly shares that it has obtained a Special Airworthiness Certificate from the FAA. While not the first of its kind to receive such certification, Alef highlights the distinction of being the “first real flying car” to be approved, as previous models lacked the ability to navigate regular roads and parking spaces. This achievement follows the FAA’s grant of the same certificate to Toyota-backed Joby Aviation.
Test Flights and Future Development:
Controlled tests of full prototypes have been underway since 2019, aligning with Alef Aeronautics’ inspiration from the “Back to the Future” film franchise. The recently acquired FAA certificate now allows the company to expand its test flights, further refining and enhancing the Model A’s capabilities. However, before the vehicle can be tested on public roads, approval from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is still required.
Pre-orders and Production Timeline:
Alef Aeronautics is already accepting pre-orders for the Model A on its website. The estimated cost of this groundbreaking flying car is a substantial $300,000. The company has reported receiving 440 pre-orders as of January and aims to commence production and delivery by late 2025. Additionally, Alef is also actively working on a four-person sedan, with plans to release it in 2035.
With the issuance of a Special Airworthiness Certificate from the FAA, Alef Aeronautics marks a significant milestone in the development of their electric flying car, the Model A. This innovative vehicle offers the versatility of a street-legal sports car and the ability to take flight. As the company continues to conduct controlled tests and refine their prototype, the Model A represents a promising step towards the future of personal aerial transportation.
