It looks like flying cars are generating consumer interest.
Alef Aeronautics shared with Insider that it has now received more than $250 million worth of pre-orders for its electric flying car dubbed Model A.
The startup company, which got $3 million of seed capital, first opened the pre-selling period for the $300,000 Model A last October 19, 2022, requiring interested individuals to deposit $150 to lock the slot, while a $1,500 fee is imposed should customers want to be on the priority list.
The company did not share the exact number of the actual reserved units. But, it could mean that it has roughly 834 advance orders for the Model A electric flying car since it costs $300,000 each. Alef Aeronautics plans to begin production and initiate the first deliveries in the fourth quarter of 2025.
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The startup company shared that its flying car generated a lot of interest from the public as it received 440 pre-orders in the last quarter of 2022 alone. It includes one fleet order from a “large Hong Kong-based aviation technology company” while “most orders are from individuals.”
The reservation list for Alef's Model A could get a boost as its electric flying car has already been accredited by the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), securing a Special Airworthiness Certificate.
Alef explained that the certificate will allow the company to expand its research and development. It also allows them to conduct “exhibition purposes” while clarifying that a different certification is required to allow the Model A flying car to be driven on the road.
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The Model A is an electric vehicle with a driving range of 200 miles and a flight range of 110 miles on a single charge. It can vertically take off and land while accommodating up to two people onboard.
The Model A has eight fans hidden behind the vehicle's body panels. It is said to come with dimensions fit for an urban setting, which is a different approach to what Hyundai is developing.
Alef is also looking to build a four-person flying car dubbed Model Z, targeted to be introduced in 2035. It is said to be capable of flying 200 miles with a driving range of 400 miles and a price point that could compete with the Toyota Corolla.
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Keyword: Alef's Electric Flying Car Has 800 Orders Worth Over $250 Million