CALIFORNIA (Kashmir English): Automotive and aeronautical engineering technology marked a major milestone as Alef Aeronautics has unveiled the first-ever footage of a flying car in action.
The development has been termed as significant as the Wright Brothers’ first flight in 1903.
Soaring over another car
What could be rightly said as an impressive leap, the development marks a breakthrough in transportation. The test vehicle, a 100% electric prototype, began by driving along a California road before lifting off vertically and climbing over another car in a major breakthrough in automotive and aeronautical engineering.
The test vehicle used distributed electric propulsion and a mesh layer that covered the vehicle’s propeller blades to facilitate the flight.
This test is as significant as the Wright Brothers’ first flight in 1903, said Alef CEO Jim Dukhovny and added the test showcased the potential of vertical take-off vehicles, especially in urban environments.
The vehicle shown in the footage is an ultralight version of Alef’s Model Zero. For commercial purposes, the company will introduce the Model A, a two-seater flying car with a 200-mile driving range and 110-mile flying range.
The Model A will be equipped with autopilot capabilities coupled with eight independent rotors, allowing for versatile flight.
The car has impressive flying abilities. Its driving capabilities currently limit its speed to 25 mph, making it suitable just for urban environments rather than highways.
The Model A will be offered for approximately $300,000, with pre-orders available starting at a $150 deposit. So far, Alef has secured 3,300 pre-orders.
