Alef Aeronautics’ Model Zero prototype flying car lifts off on a test flight, one of several the manufacturer made public in February. [Courtesy: Alef Aeronautics]
Key Takeaways:
Alef Aeronautics' Model Zero prototype successfully completed a test flight in California, demonstrating a "true" flying car by driving and taking off vertically from a city street.
Alef distinguishes its vehicle from other flying car concepts by its unique vertical takeoff capability without relying on wings or runways, designed to bypass freeway traffic.
The company aims to begin production of its Model A flying car, priced at $300,000, by next year, having already received approximately 3,300 preorders.
Despite the test flight, Alef faces significant regulatory hurdles to certify the Model A in the U.S., needing to meet stringent safety standards for both automobiles and aircraft.
Last week, a real-life flying car took to the skies over California.
The test flight of the Model Zero—a drive-and-fly prototype built by San Mateo, California-based Alef Aeronautics—lasted only a few moments. But according to Alef, a video of the flight making the rounds on social media is the first documentation of a car driving and taking off vertically on a city street.
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Jack is a staff writer covering advanced air mobility, including everything from drones to unmanned aircraft systems to space travel—and a whole lot more. He spent close to two years reporting on drone delivery for FreightWaves, covering the biggest news and developments in the space and connecting with industry executives and experts. Jack is also a basketball aficionado, a frequent traveler and a lover of all things logistics.
