Alef Aeronautics, a company from the U.S., has just shared an exciting video of its flying car, the Model Zero. Imagine a vehicle that drives like a car but can lift off the ground like a drone! Unlike other flying cars that resemble helicopters, Alef’s design looks and feels like a real car, making it stand out.
The Model Zero is an electric vertical takeoff and landing vehicle, or eVTOL. This means it can take off straight up without needing a long runway like traditional airplanes. Instead, it can launch from public roads.
In the newly released footage, the Model Zero takes its first successful vertical flight. It drives along a street before lifting off and hovering over a parked car. This marks a big step forward for urban air travel.
During its tests in San Mateo, California, the Model Zero showcased its ability to transition smoothly from driving to flying. It’s powered by eight hidden rotors—four at the front and four at the back—which pop out for takeoff. Alef conducted the tests on closed roads for safety, making history as the first car to take off and land in an urban setting.
Designed with a unique mesh-like body, the Model Zero can rotate its roof to act as wings while in the air. This clever design allows it to keep a car-like shape when on the road. It accommodates only one passenger and is classified as a low-speed vehicle, reaching speeds of up to 25 miles per hour on the ground.
In terms of performance, the Model Zero boasts a driving range of 320 kilometers and a flight range of 160 kilometers. It can travel 40 kilometers per hour on the road and features bicycle-like tires for a smoother ride.
Alef Aeronautics is also working on moving its Model A flying car to production next year, already having 3,330 pre-orders priced at approximately $299,999. Additionally, the company plans to introduce a four-seater model called the Model Z by 2035. While this development is thrilling, experts warn of potential regulatory and technological hurdles ahead.
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