
Alef Aeronautics, an innovative firm backed by SpaceX and renowned for its ventures into the realm of flying cars, recently announced a significant milestone, having secured 2,850 preorders for its groundbreaking electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicle. Situated in San Mateo, California, Alef has been at the forefront of the eVTOL industry, with its preorder figures reaching a new high, surpassing the previously reported figure of 2,500 for its two-seater flying car, the Alef Model A.
The process to preorder the Model A is streamlined and accessible online, requiring a modest deposit of $150. This deposit is fully refundable, ensuring that customers have the flexibility to withdraw their commitment at any point without financial penalty. Alef has set the purchase price for the Model A at $300,000, which, based on the current number of preorders, positions the company to achieve a combined order value exceeding $850 million upon the vehicle’s release to the market.
Jim Dukhovny, CEO of Alef, expressed his enthusiasm regarding the preorder figures, stating, “As of today, we have a little bit more than 2,850 preorders with deposits down, which makes it the best-selling aircraft in history, surpassing the sales of giants like Boeing, Airbus, Joby Aviation, and most of the eVTOLs combined.” Despite the hefty price tag, Dukhovny emphasizes the necessity of such pricing for a startup at Alef’s stage, which is yet to generate substantial revenue.
In addition to the Model A, Alef is developing a four-person sedan, the Model Z, with a launch target set for 2035. The Model Z is expected to be priced at $35,000, making it comparably affordable to other electric vehicles on the market. This initiative places Alef among a cadre of startups striving to turn the concept of flying cars into reality, competing with companies like Lilium, Joby Aviation, and others who have entered partnerships to explore the potential of air taxi services.
Alef’s distinctive approach to eVTOL design sets it apart from its competitors, many of whom are focusing on jet-like models with wings or large, helicopter-style rotors. The Model A, showcased as a half-size model at Mobile World Congress, mimics the appearance of a conventional car, equipped with a mesh shell that conceals the rotors. This design allows for airflow through the vehicle, facilitating vertical takeoff and landing.
Dukhovny proudly refers to the Model A as the “first flying car in history,” highlighting its unique design that integrates the functionality of an eVTOL with the form factor of a regular car. The vehicle is primarily designed for road use, powered by four small engines located in each wheel, similar to a traditional electric car. For flight, it utilizes eight propellers positioned at the front and back, enabling it to navigate in any direction. The Alef Model A boasts a cruising speed of 110 miles per hour in the air, with road speeds limited to between 25 and 35 miles per hour.
Looking ahead to a 2025 launch, the Alef Model A, classified as an ultra-light vehicle, aims to navigate the regulatory landscape with relative ease compared to heavier, more complex aircraft. The Federal Aviation Authority has already granted Alef a special airworthiness certificate for limited purposes such as exhibition, research, and development. However, further approvals are necessary for consumer flights.
Dukhovny acknowledges the challenges ahead, especially in meeting the high demand reflected in the preorder numbers. He anticipates a gradual production ramp-up, emphasizing that the widespread deployment of these vehicles across cities like San Francisco or Barcelona will not occur overnight. Instead, Alef plans to adopt a measured approach, focusing on quality and regulatory compliance to ensure the successful introduction of its flying cars to the market.