AIR/WATER

Alef Aeronautics Receives FAA Certification to Fly “Model A” Car

July 9, 2023

The eVTOL electric car can take off and land vertically, so the FAA needs to develop rules and regulations for this new class of vehicles.
The Model A will sell for $299,999, and Alef is taking deposits on its website.
The Alef Model A will change how people commute to and from work.

The first flying car received Special Airworthiness Certification from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration. This vehicle, developed by Alef Aeronautics in Santa Mateo, California, is the first of its kind to be legally approved to drive and fly in the United States. Alef expects to sell the flying car in 2025.

Rules and Regulations for Vertical Takeoffs and Landings

While Alef is taking orders for the “Model A” flying car, the FAA is developing policies for a special class of vehicles with the capability to take off vertically. This class of electrical vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicles will be required to follow the rules and regulations set by the FAA.

The rules will involve interactions with eVTOLs and ground infrastructure like roads, runways, and air traffic towers. Until the rules are set, the Special Airworthiness Certificate limits when and where the Model A can fly.

About the Model A

Alef debuted its flying full-sized sports car in October 2022. The company seemed to appear from nowhere and already had two demo electrical aircraft models with working technology. Since its debut, the aeronautics company has received pre-orders and investments from high-profile venture capitalists.

The vehicle has room for one or two and is fully electric. While there are limits to where it can fly, the Model A has no limitations on where it can be driven. The Alef Model A fits in a garage and parking space, as the engineers designed it to fit all traffic regulations. Engineers at Alef are working on making a hydrogen-powered option with a longer range than the electrified model.

About Alef Aeronautics

The CEO of Alef, Jim Dukhovny, said, “It [FAA certification] allows us to move closer to bringing people an environmentally friendly and faster commute, saving individuals and companies hours each week.” Dukhovny founded Alef Aeronautics in 2015 along with Konstantin Kisly, Pavel Markin, and Oleg Petrov. The company is dedicated to building sustainable electric transportation for driving and flying.