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The US government has given the California-based startup Alef Aeronautics legal permission for its electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) Model A flying automobile to fly.
The Alef Model A, which will be unveiled in October 2022, can be driven on public highways and is said to be capable of vertical takeoff and landing. With one to two passengers, it has a driving range of 200 miles (322 kilometers) and a flying range of 110 miles (177 kilometers) on a single full charge.
The Model A flying automobile costs $300,000 USD (about Rs. 2.46 crore). Pre-orders for the electric variant can be made on Alef's website for a minimal fee of $150 (Rs 12,308). Priority reservations are permitted for USD 1,500 (about Rs. 1.23 lakh).
Alef said that both people and businesses have placed significant pre-orders. Beginning in 2025, Model A will be produced.
Alef claimed in a formal announcement that the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) had granted it special airworthiness certification, making it the first vehicle of this kind to have official US government authorization to fly.
Alef's unique airworthiness certificate restricts the areas and uses for which the Model A is authorized to fly, even though the FAA is actively developing its policies for eVTOL vehicles and regulating interactions between eVTOLs and ground infrastructure. Only regions on the whitelist are allowed for takeoff.
"We're thrilled to acquire this FAA clearance. It advances our goal of giving commuters a quicker, more ecologically friendly option while also saving people and businesses hours each week. According to Jim Dukhovny, CEO of Alef, "This is one tiny step for airplanes, one enormous stride for autos.
Alef is also developing Model Z, which is scheduled to debut in 2035, in addition to Model A.
On a single full charge, the Model Z will have a driving range of 300 miles (483 kilometers) and a flying range of 220 miles (354 kilometers). Four to six people will be able to fit inside. Price estimates for the Model Z range between USD 35,000 and Rs 28.72 lakh.
