With the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) approval of San Mateo-based Alef Aeronautics's "Model A" flying car for testing in the air and on the ground in limited locations, the future of transportation appears to be taking off sooner than expected according to NBC Bay Area. This move brings us closer to realizing the dream of a fast, environmentally friendly, and efficient commute, something that is much needed in this age of increasing urban congestion.
Alef Aeronautics's flying car, the first of its kind, is designed to be driven on regular urban or rural streets. It has vertical takeoff and landing capabilities, and can be parked like a typical car according to Business Insider. The company says the "Model A" is a low-speed vehicle, ideal for drivers who need a faster route and are looking to utilize Alef's flight capabilities.
The innovative flying car, dubbed "Model A," is also 100% electric, with a driving range of up to 200 miles on the ground and a flying range of 110 miles. With room for a driver and up to one other passenger, those inside this extraordinary vehicle are “stabilized by a unique gimbaled rotating cabin design,” promising a comfortable and smooth ride both in the air and on the ground.
The Special Airworthiness Certification from the FAA is a significant milestone for Alef Aeronautics, allowing the company to begin testing its Model A flying car in limited locations. However, the company will need further approval from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration before it can continue testing the vehicle and eventually make it available to the public.
Alef Aeronautics, the pioneering startup behind the "Model A," is based in San Mateo, California and plans to sell each flying car for $300,000, with the aim of getting them on the market by the end of 2025. The flying car is currently available for preorder, with a general queue submission costing $150 and a priority queue entry costing $1,500.
According to Alef Aeronautics, the Model A has been in development since 2019, and the recent FAA approval has provided the green light for this groundbreaking vehicle to finally take flight. The company's bold vision for the future of transportation is intended to relieve traffic congestion in urban areas by offering a faster, more efficient means of getting from one place to another without the need for runways.
