The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has approved Alef Aeronautics’ flying car, the “Model A,” a Special Airworthiness Certification, signifying the green light for road and air testing.
Alef Aeronautics, based in San Mateo, has become the first company worldwide to navigate the regulatory complexities surrounding airborne vehicles.
The ‘Model A’ is operated entirely on electric power with an optional hydrogen power upgrade at a higher price.
This flying car, which can be driven on roads like any conventional vehicle, has been designed for vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL), enabling it to fly like an aircraft.
“This is one small step for planes, one giant step for cars,” stated Jim Dukhovny, the CEO of Alef Aeronautics.
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“The driver and the cabin are stabilized by a unique gimbaled rotating cabin design,” Dukhovny said, adding, they can fly in any direction while giving a “cinematic 180 plus degree view for safe and enjoyable flight.”
On public roads, this low-speed vehicle can travel up to 200 miles, fitting comfortably into a regular garage. When the road ends, it can launch vertically and fly up to a range of 110 miles. However, this one-of-a-kind automobile can only accommodate two people.
The Model A is currently available for preorders on Alef’s website. This vehicle is priced at approximately $300,000. Those interested can secure a spot on the waiting list with a deposit of $150, or get a priority spot by paying $1,500.
“Alef “Model A” is a Low Speed Vehicle (LSV) which has legal speed and other limitations in most states. The assumption is that, if a driver needs a faster route, a driver will use Alef’s flight capabilities,” according to Aelf’s website.
Adding, “Alef flying car offers a unique experience of flight in any direction (forward, backward, right, left, up, down, at an angle). It offers the ability to bypass the problematic areas on the ground, by flying over them. It offers a cinematic 180 degree plus view for safe and enjoyable flight. Many other previewers expressed unique experiences which are not offered today.”
