This Flying Car Prototype Soars Over a Stopped Car
New video from Alef Aeronautics shows that the company’s flying cars initially travel like a road car and then fly over another vehicle to simulate traffic obstacles.
The model shown in the demo is the Alef Model Zero Ultralight, which, as the name implies, is a lighter prototype for research and development. It has some key differences from the company’s first production tool, the Alef Model A.
Alef’s model Zero ultra-light flight was a parking car.
While the Zero Ultralight has smaller batteries to keep weight down, the larger batteries in the Alef’s Model A are expected to fly at 110 miles or drive at 200 miles. These numbers could increase if companies adopt new battery technology.
Thinner and smaller wheels than traditional cars also help reduce the weight of the vehicle while allowing it to drive under various conditions.
A flying car can drive on the ground like a regular car, but the interesting part is when it is airborne.
While the Zero Ultralight requires currently experienced test pilots, Alef CEO and co-founder Jim Dukhovny said Model A would be easier for the average person to fly.
The best cruising speed in the air in Model A is expected to be about 100 mph and the top speed is expected to be 225 mph. On the ground, the car is currently registered as a low-speed vehicle for R&D purposes, meaning it is limited to a top speed of 25mph. Dukhovny said higher ground speeds are possible and the ultimate goal is the goal. It only requires crash testing and regulatory approval. Until then, the company wasn’t ready to crash its prototype.
Alef flew over a car that stopped on the road, simulating traffic congestion
Alef is accepting reservations for its Type A, which is expected to cost about $300,000. Like most startups, prices may drop as production increases.
To view this flying car, check out the video in this article.
