"We've Only Seen It in Movies"... World's First Flying Car Debuts

Aleph Aeronautics Announces Test Flights of Model A
Fully Electric Vehicle with Vertical Takeoff and Landing
Capable of Flying up to 170 km

In the United States, the era of the "flying car" is entering the stage of reality.

On August 31 (Korean time), local media reported that Aleph Aeronautics, an automotive and aviation company headquartered in Silicon Valley, recently signed agreements with Hollister Airport and Half Moon Bay Airport in California. The company announced that it will officially begin test flights of its flying car, "Model A." This marks the world's first test operation of an electric flying car.

Model A is a fully electric vehicle capable of both road driving and vertical takeoff and landing. It can fly in all directions, allowing it to travel directly to its destination without having to avoid obstacles such as urban buildings or mountainous terrain. Notably, the cockpit is equipped with a gimbal device, ensuring that the driver and passengers remain stable even if the aircraft tilts.

Aleph Aeronautics' flying car 'Model A'. Photo by Aleph Aeronautics

In terms of performance, Model A can travel approximately 320 kilometers on the ground and 170 kilometers in flight. Under U.S. federal regulations, Model A is classified as an ultralight aircraft, so it can operate without complex flight certification procedures. However, due to regulatory requirements, it is only allowed to fly during daylight hours and cannot fly over urban or densely populated areas.

Aleph is accepting reservations through its official website and has already secured more than 3,300 preorders. The vehicle is priced at about $300,000 (approximately 420 million won).

Jim Dukhovny, CEO of Aleph, stated, "Model A is an innovative attempt to integrate cars into existing aviation infrastructure and transportation systems. Electric aviation is environmentally friendly, generates less noise, and makes more efficient use of space. We hope that more airports will accommodate electric aircraft in the future."

Previously, in April, U.S. air taxi developer Archer Aviation announced on its website that it had unveiled a "New York Air Taxi Network Plan" in collaboration with United Airlines, which includes routes between Manhattan and nearby airports.

In addition, competitors such as Joby Aviation are reportedly preparing to launch air taxi services. In the case of Joby, the company completed test flights in November 2023 and is aiming for commercialization this year.