Alef’s Flying EV Takes Off — For Real
Flying cars have arrived. Alef Aeronautics, a California-based startup, is turning sci-fi into reality. Its all-electric flying car, the Model A, is now being tested at two official U.S. airports: Half Moon Bay and Hollister, both located in Silicon Valley.
These aren’t secret test zones. Alef will operate its aircraft alongside traditional air traffic, collecting performance data and evaluating how the flying car fits into existing flight paths. It’s a bold leap for both aviation and EVs.
Model A: A Car That Flies
The Alef Model A is a road-legal electric vehicle that also takes to the skies.
- Driving range: 220 miles
- Flight range: 110 miles
The vehicle uses VTOL (vertical takeoff and landing) technology, so it lifts off like a drone—no runway required.
Earlier this year, Alef released a viral video of a lightweight prototype driving and then taking off vertically, hopping over another car. It was the first-ever footage of a car transitioning directly into flight.
FAA Certification Secured
Alef is the first company to receive a Special Airworthiness Certification from the FAA for a flying car. This approval allows the Model A to operate legally in U.S. skies, paving the way for future urban air mobility.
The startup has also locked in partnerships with aerospace suppliers PUCARA Aero and MYC, known for working with industry leaders like Boeing and Airbus. That means the supply chain is battle-tested.
3,300+ Preorders and a $300K Price Tag
The Model A isn’t cheap — it starts at $300,000 — but the demand is there. Alef has already taken over 3,300 preorders.
You can reserve yours for $150, or pay $1,500 to jump ahead in the delivery line.
Production is already underway, with customer deliveries expected in 2026.
What’s Next?
Alef will launch with its lighter Model Zero before moving into full Model A deployment. Future plans include a network of airport-based launch hubs.
Flying cars are no longer a dream. They’re about to become traffic’s worst nightmare.
