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 successfully conducted a test flight of its Model Zero prototype in California, claiming it's the first documented instance of a car driving on a city street and performing a vertical takeoff.
The company distinguishes its "true" flying car by its ability to take off vertically from a street without relying on wings or runways, setting it apart from other hybrid aircraft.
Alef plans to launch production of its two-seater Model A flying car by next year, priced at $300,000, and has already secured approximately 3,300 preorders.
Despite receiving initial FAA airworthiness approval for testing, the Model A faces significant regulatory hurdles to gain full certification in the U.S., needing to meet both automobile and aircraft safety standards.
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.
