California start up Alef Aeronautics, has obtained permission from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to test what they define as "the first flying car." The prototype can be driven both in the air and on the roads, although it needs to be certified by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to do so.
The FAA confirmed to CNN that it has issued the company a special airworthiness certificate, allowing for both display and research & development. However, spokesmen from the Administration wanted to clarify that this is not the first such permit they have granted, and that there are other companies that have submitted what they call similar "model airplanes." Alef emphasized that the difference lies in the fact that the "Model A" is the first to be able to move in the air and on land.
Market launch in 2025 for $300,000
The company explains that the prototype can be driven on public roads and parked like a normal car. In addition, it includes a system that allows vertical take-off and landing. From what Alef has revealed, it will be able to carry up to two occupants. It is a 100% electric vehicle, with a range of 300 km on the road and 110 km in flight. The company expects to sell the vehicle for $300,000 each, with the first delivery scheduled for late 2025.
"A giant step forward for cars"
On the ground it will be able to reach 25 mph, for which it has qualified for certification as a "slow vehicle" by the authorities. This does not worry the manufacturers, who point out that, if the driver needs to move faster, he will be able to resort to the vehicle's flying capacity.
Alef's CEO, Jim Dukhovny, says: "We’re excited to receive this certification from the FAA. It allows us to move closer to bringing people an environmentally friendly and faster commute, saving individuals and companies hours each week. This is a one small step for planes, one giant step for cars."
