Electric flying car that got approval for test flights
- Alef Aeronautics has received an unprecedented certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
- Its Armada Model Zero can take off horizontally and vertically, like a drone
- Now, the flying car has received permission to perform test flights in the United States.
Published on Apr 26, 2024 at 2:01 PM (UTC+4)
by Andie Reeves
Last updated on Apr 26, 2024 at 2:03 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by
Tom Wood
We’re another step closer to a future where the flying car is a reality.
Alef Aeronautics has received an unprecedented certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
This means the company – backed by Space X – can start testing its flight-capable car.
READ MORE: The challenges and obstacles facing flying car mass production
The world of flying cars is still in the early stages, but aviation companies have been making great strides in the past few years.
Boeing has created a sub-division dedicated to its flying car fleet, which is set to launch in 2030.
Elon Musk has hinted that Space X and Tesla will collaborate to make the Roadster fly.
And XPeng’s X2 has been spotted flying around a city in China.
As more flying vehicles enter the world, the FAA is trying to keep up, developing the necessary certification alongside them.
Recently Alef Aeronautics proudly announced that its Armada Model Zero had received a certificate from the FAA permitting it to fly in the US.
According to CEO Jim Dukhovny, Alef Aeronautics aims to save individuals and companies time while saving the planet.
“It allows us to move closer to bringing people an environmentally friendly and faster commute,” he says.
“This is one small step for planes, one giant step for cars.”
There are several challenges and obstacles to be overcome before flying cars can become the norm.
From air traffic management to noise pollution, it won’t be as simple as simply setting your car to ‘fly’ mode when you’re stuck in a traffic jam on the road.
Alef Aeronautic’s certification means its car will only be allowed to fly in agreed-upon areas and for specific reasons for now.
The intention is for this car to slot in with existing infrastructure.
This is why Alef calls it the ‘world’s first real flying car’ as while other similar flying vehicles have received FAA approval, the Armada Model Zero can fit on regular roads and in parking spaces.
Armada Model Zero is capable of vertical and horizontal takeoff, like a drone, without the need for a runway.
The two-seater’s road range is 200 miles while its flying range is 110 miles.
Underneath its carbon fiber frame are eight rotors instead of an engine: four in the front and four in the rear.
Prospective buyers can pay $150 to join the queue or $1,500 for priority access.
The Armada Model Zero is expected to roll out as soon as 2025.
And with a starting price of $300,000, you’d better start saving now
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Andie is a content writer from South Africa with a background in broadcasting and journalism. Starting her career in the glossy pages of Cosmopolitan and Marie Claire, Andie has a broad portfolio, covering everything from sustainability solutions to celebrity car collections. When not at her laptop Andie can be found sewing, recording her podcast, taking board games too seriously or road-tripping in her bright green Kia.
