US-based Alef Aeronautics has received approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to conduct testing on its fully-electric “Model A” flying car. The company has also started accepting pre-orders for this innovative electric vertical take-off and landing (e-VTOL) vehicle, with prices starting at $150 (approximately R2,793 at the current exchange rate).
Alef aims to release the Model A in 2025 at a full price of $299,999 (R5,590,000). Looking ahead, the company plans to make flying electric vehicles (EVs) more accessible to the general public by introducing a $35,000 (R652,000) model by the 2030s.
Key Details about the Alef Model A:
Alef claims that the Model A is the first true flying car on the market, as it can operate on roads like a conventional vehicle, fitting into regular lanes and parking spaces, adhering to traffic regulations, and, of course, flying.
Currently in the prototype phase, the Model A features a circular passenger compartment housed within a frame that accommodates eight rotors. The top part of the frame incorporates mesh to shield passengers from the rotor blades while allowing airflow. The bottom section consists primarily of structural components.
This design sets the Model A apart from most other e-VTOLs, as it eliminates the need for large, unsightly fixed wings or intricate, heavy wing structures prone to damage. The vehicle also includes four traditional car wheels around its perimeter for ground mobility.
Inside the Alef Model A, two passengers can comfortably sit in one-piece hardshell chairs while enjoying a cinematic 180-degree-plus view for a safe and enjoyable flight experience, as per the manufacturer’s description.
Referred to as a “Low-Speed Vehicle” (LSV), the flying EV has a maximum road speed of 40 km/h, subject to legal limitations in certain countries. However, Alef anticipates that drivers can leverage the flight capabilities of the Model A if they require a faster route. The passenger cell within the frame can swivel to maintain a forward-facing position during flight.
Alef has not disclosed the exact range of the Model A for either flying or driving, nor the specific power source. However, the company confirmed that the vehicle operates fully on electricity. Alef plans to introduce a hydrogen-powered model in the future with an extended range on both road and air, albeit at a higher price point.
Before the Model A can be officially registered as a legal vehicle, it must obtain approval from relevant road and aviation authorities in all targeted markets. Moreover, the vehicle caters to a niche audience consisting of ultra-wealthy individuals who possess both pilot and driver’s licenses, making potential customers relatively scarce.
Forbes reports that over 600 companies are currently competing to develop their own flying cars, be they electric or otherwise, each claiming to have the ultimate solution to a problem that remains partially unsolved.
Alef stands as one of the frontrunners in this pursuit. However, it faces significant challenges, having conducted only a handful of test flights since commencing work on the Model A in 2015. The company has approximately two years to meet its self-imposed deadline of launching a flying EV for the public.
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