Alef Aeronautics has successfully tested the vertical takeoff and landing of its flying car, moving a step closer to making sci-fi a reality. The US-based start-up released a video showcasing its concept model, the Alef Model Zero, safely taking off and landing during a test flight in California. CEO Jim Dukhovny said, “We are trying to make science fiction into reality.” The footage also shows the flying car flying above a vehicle parked on the road. In an interview, Dukhovny noted that this innovation could potentially reduce travel time by half.
Alef Model Zero: World’s first flying car
The Model Zero is an all-electric car with the superpower to fly. The test flight took place in California at a cordoned-off location, inaccessible to the public. According to reports, it offers a driving range of around 321 km, a flight range of 160 km and can go up to 40 kmph on the road. The Model Zero is classified as a low speed vehicle (LSV).
The test model is not production-ready yet as the company has not revealed any details. In an interview, Dukhovny said that safeguarding intellectual property rights is very important. The flying car was designed Hirash Razaghi, who previously worked with Bugatti and Jaguar. After posting the demo flight test on social media, Dukhovny said, “We really hope that these videos will play a role similar to Wright Brothers’ video in proving to humanity that a new mode of transportation is possible and making the new type of #transportation #takeoff.”
Flying car: How much does it cost?
Alef Aeronautics reports that it has received over 3,200 pre-orders for its flying car. Priced at $300,000, the all-electric vehicle is set to begin production next year. However, there may be legal challenges when it comes to transitioning from driving on roads to flying above traffic. Dukhovny explains that the company plans to take a slow, incremental approach, which he believes will be beneficial for both legal and consumer integration. As demand increases, he notes, regulations will evolve to keep pace, he added.
