The world's first flying car begins testing in Silicon Valley

US tech startup Alef has signed agreements with two Silicon Valley airports to test the world's first vertical-takeoff flying car. The San Mateo-based company is preparing to conduct operations at Half Moon Bay and Hollister airports.

The product of a 10-year dream

Alef aims to integrate air and land transportation with its Model A flying car, which it has been developing for ten years. According to the company's plan, test operations will include driving, vertical takeoff, forward flight, vertical landing, and maneuvering. Because the vehicle is classified as ultralight, the company does not require special regulatory certification to operate it. However, operators will limit their flights to daylight hours and will be prohibited from flying in densely populated areas.

Fully electric and environmentally friendly

The flying car will be 100% electric, with a 200-mile road range and a 110-mile flight range. "On average, the Alef flying car uses less energy per trip than a Tesla," said Alef CEO Jim Dukhovny. "Electric aviation is more environmentally friendly, quieter, and requires less space."

Alef's test operations will showcase the vehicle's integration with air traffic and its AI-powered safety systems. "Safe, controlled, and tower-free airport environments will help us demonstrate how future flying car fleets will operate," CEO Dukhovny explained.

Pre-orders have started

The company's all-electric Model A will retail for approximately $300,000 and has already received more than 3,300 pre-orders. Customers can pre-order with a $150 deposit or pay $1,500 to be in the priority queue. Alef's initiative showcases the fusion of automotive and aircraft technologies and a vision for the future of transportation. Silicon Valley airports will be among the first to adopt this innovative and environmentally friendly technology.