California based Alef Aeronautics introduces the first flying car, Model A

Arushi Sakhuja 

We’ve all sat to ourselves and secretly (or not so secretly) wished we could have a flying car and simply jet off to our desired destination to avoid the traffic. However, flying cars aren’t a distant dream anymore California-based Alef Aeronautics, has introduced the first-ever flying car, Model A. Designed to drive on the street, take off vertically when needed and fly overhead above traffic, it’s the perfect solution to modern-day congestion.

The two-passenger Model A will also be the only road-certified flying car that can do vertical take-off and landing like electric-powered eVTOLs, and it would be on ‘pre-sale’ for a deposit of $1,500 in the first quarter of next year. The company says the first deliveries will happen in the fourth quarter of 2025 and is priced at $300,000 USD.

Designed by Hirash Razaghi — the man behind designing Jaguars and Bugattis — it has a retro-futuristic look. The unusual appearance, which features a body that flips on its side to become the wing after lift-off – is just one aspect that makes it so attractive. One feature that sets the Model A apart from earlier versions of flying cars is how it flies. Once it lifts off the ground, the cockpit swivels and the carbon-fibre body turns over on its side, then moves forward, driven by an array of propellers.  Alef estimates a driving range of 200 miles (322 km) and a flight range of 100 miles.

While the ground mode resembles a stylized automotive body, the design of the carbon-fibre chassis is its innovation. The two seats, or cockpit, tilt 90 degrees forward as the Model A moves into aircraft mode. From the ground, it looks like the aircraft is flying on its side. In an interview, Alef CEO Jim Dukhovny said the wings are integrated into the carbon-fibre body rather than being retractable, so the owner won’t have to take off and land at airports.

The company said the initial top speed of 35 mph will comply with regulations for low-speed electric vehicles. By 2030, Alef expects to be building the Model Z, which will be priced more reasonably at $35,000 USD.

To pre-order click here

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