Science fiction movies are about to get real. It is 2023, and we are just about to see flying cars with our own eyes. Alef Aeronautics confirms over $250 million worth of preorders for their flying car, which has just received approval from the US government. That would translate into approximately 834 vehicles.
The news comes soon after the California-based startup received a Special Airworthiness Certification from the Federation Aviation Administration (FAA) for its flying car. The certification, despite the fact that it has strict limits for locations and purpose for which the vehicle is permitted to fly, will allow Alef to conduct further testing and carry out demonstration flights.
It was probably this certification that convinced customers who were dreaming of commuting to the office in a flying car. Alef confirms that it has over $250 million worth of preorders. The list includes a fleet preorder as well, coming from what they call "a large Hong Kong-based aviation technology company." But, according to a report from the Insider, most reservations were made by individuals.
Considering that the Model A is priced at $300,000, mathematics show that there should be no fewer than 834 vehicles reserved by customers.
Photo: Alef
Last year, Alef announced that they had received 400 preorders for the world’s first fully electric flying car approved by FAA. The number has almost doubled by now. Preorders started in October 2022 with two deposit options. Customers can either put down a standard $150 deposit or a $1,500 deposit if they are interested in joining the priority queue. Both deposits are fully responsible in case the customers change their minds.
Alef’s eVTOL looks pretty much like a car. The Model A, though, features propellers that allow vertical takeoff and landing. It fits anywhere a conventional car fits, regular driving lanes, underground garages, and parking spots included. So there is no need for special infrastructure.
For the design of its flying car, Alef hired former exterior and interior Bugatti and Jaguar designer Hirassh Razaghi and asked him to pen a modern, sporty look and feel car.
The startup credits its eVTOL with a range of 200 miles (322 kilometers) on the ground. Meanwhile, it should be capable of flying up to 110 miles (177 kilometers) with the battery pack full.
Alef is also working on a hydrogen version. That one will come with a higher price, but with extended drive and flight range. The Model A can carry only one or two occupants, but a flying car made for more is also in the works.
Deliveries should start in the fourth quarter of 2025. There is plenty of time to triple the number of preorders and their worth. "Back to the Future" is about to get real.
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