Alef Aeronautics Opens Preorders for Flying Electric Car with FAA Certification
Alef Aeronautics, a cutting-edge company based in California, has announced that preorders are now available for its highly anticipated flying electric car. The groundbreaking vehicle has received a special airworthiness certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), marking a significant milestone in its development and paving the way for road and air testing.
According to a press release from Alef Aeronautics, the innovative flying car, known as the “Model A,” combines electric propulsion with a unique gimbaled rotating cabin design for stabilization during flight. With the ability to operate as both a low-speed vehicle on public roads and a vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft, the Model A offers a range of features that redefine urban mobility.
Equipped with an electric powertrain, the fully electric version of the Model A boasts a range of up to 200 miles on public roads, making it suitable for daily commutes and urban travel. Additionally, Alef Aeronautics offers a hydrogen option, albeit at a higher price, for those seeking extended range capabilities. In air mode, the Model A can cover a flying range of 110 miles, allowing users to effortlessly navigate through congested areas and bypass traffic.
“Our Model A car represents the future of transportation,” said Alef Aeronautics CEO Jim Dukhovny, who co-founded the company in 2015. “With its unique capabilities, our vehicle offers a safe and enjoyable flight experience while providing an efficient and eco-friendly commuting solution. We are excited to receive this certification from the FAA, as it brings us closer to revolutionizing the way people travel.”
One of the standout features of the Model A is its ability to fly above obstacles and reach desired destinations, thanks to its forward-flight capability. Alef Aeronautics emphasizes the car’s panoramic 180 plus-degree view, ensuring a cinematic experience while maintaining safety and situational awareness.
To address concerns about affordability, Alef Aeronautics has priced the Model A at approximately $300,000. While it may not be accessible to everyone initially, the company anticipates that as the technology matures and production scales up, costs will gradually decrease, making flying cars more accessible to a broader market.
The FAA’s Special Airworthiness Certificate, issued on June 12, 2023, grants Alef Aeronautics permission for limited purposes, including exhibition, research, and development. This certification aligns with the FAA’s ongoing efforts to establish policies and regulations for electric vehicle takeoff and landing procedures.
Alef Aeronautics’ journey began in 2015 when Dukhovny, along with co-founders Constantine Kisly, Pavel Markin, and Oleg Petrov, drew inspiration from the iconic flying car depicted in the film “Back to the Future II.” The team’s vision and determination led them to develop the Model A, setting a new benchmark in transportation innovation.
As preorders for the Model A continue to pour in from individuals and businesses, Alef Aeronautics remains committed to delivering an environmentally friendly and efficient means of transportation. The company believes that the flying electric car represents a significant leap forward in the evolution of both planes and cars, ultimately saving commuters valuable time and revolutionizing urban travel.
About Alef Aeronautics: Alef Aeronautics is a California-based company at the forefront of developing flying electric vehicles. With their innovative design and commitment to sustainability, Alef Aeronautics aims to transform urban transportation and provide users with a new level of freedom and convenience.