The Federal Aviation Administration has given approval for the testing of a flying car, bringing us one step closer to a future in which vehicles can soar through the air
In a thrilling development within the field of transportation, the Federal Aviation Administration has, at long last, granted certification for testing to the first fully electric flying car that boasts the remarkable ability to soar through the skies and traverse the roads.
The company behind this innovation, Alef Aeronautics, claims on its website that once it is fully launched, its “Model A” ride will be the first of its kind that can be driven on public highways and parked similarly to a regular automobile. In addition to that, it was also mentioned that this vehicle has the ability to take off and land vertically. It will supposedly have a road range of 200 miles, a flying range of 110 miles, and seating for one to two people.
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According to Alef’s CEO, Jim Dukhovny, “this is one small step for planes, one giant step for cars,” as quoted in a news release. Alef’s website also notes that reducing traffic congestion is one of the goals of this innovative mode of transportation. “We enable faster and easier commutes, driven by proprietary technology that elevates the vehicle without the need for runways,” they said.
Its two-seater vehicle design is lauded for what the company claims is a comfortable ride and safe flight for its passengers. This electric car has a full-size ballistic parachute for further protection in the event of an accident.
According to Alef, a completely functional prototype was flown in 2019 after a successful 2018 autonomous test flight of a skeleton version of the car. However, they clarified that in order to carry out the essential research and development, a specific airworthiness certificate from the FAA was required.
As of earlier this year, the company also announced that they have accepted refundable pre-orders for more than 400 of the vehicles at USD 150 for the public queue and USD 1,500 for the priority queue.
The first deliveries are expected to begin by the end of 2025, and the car is expected to sell for USD 300,000. As the launch date of this vehicle draws near, we must ask: Are you ready to take a trip into the future?
Photos and Video: ALEF AERONAUTICS
