In a recent report from CNBC, the flying car firm Alef Aeronautics has taken off tremendously with an astonishing 2,850 preorders for its two-seater flying car, the Alef Model A.
Led by their CEO, Jim Dukhovny, the San Mateo-based company, funded by dynamic venture capitalist Tim Draper, has already brought in over $850 million in preorder value, leaping ahead in the eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) vehicle market.
Previously, Alef reported 2,500 preorders and has seen a massive surge since then. The vehicle, available for preorder online with a modest $150 deposit, is set to retail at $300,000—a clear validation for the company's confidence in the Model A.
With these numbers on the board, Alef claims to defy the aviation giants like Boeing and Airbus, even outstripping popular eVTOL player, Joby Aviation.
In an industry where adaptation is key, Alef is also working on a four-person sedan—the Model Z—which is set to launch by 2035 at an affordable $35,000. Mirroring a conventional car, the Model A is road-apt—all thanks to four small engines in each wheel—while retaining the capability to fly (powered by eight propellers). Capped at 25-35 mph on the roads, the Model A impresses even more with a cruise speed of 110 mph in the sky.
Presently, Alef carries a special airworthiness certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration, permitting limited exhibition and R&D usage. However, the company is still seeking further approval for consumer flights, ensuring a safe and legal rollout of its ambitious project. With production set to begin gradually, Alef is bracing itself to meet a demand that has undeniably struck a chord with consumers.
With its lofty goals and an exciting journey ahead, Alef Aeronautics is undoubtedly a trailblazer in the burgeoning eVTOL industry. Will this bold venture redefine the way we travel? We look forward to finding out.
Maverick is the call sign of Mobile Gnosis publisher and editor-in-chief, Matt De Reno. Have a tip, story idea, or news item to share? You can send him an email at