San Mateo-based startup Alef Aeronautics has taken a monumental leap in redefining transportation with the unveiling of its groundbreaking electric flying car, the Model A. 

In a historic demonstration on February 19, 2025, the company released captivating footage of a sleek, black vehicle that seamlessly transitions from conventional road travel to a dramatic vertical takeoff. 

The newly released video captures the Model A driving along a road before lifting off into the air, hovering approximately 33 feet above the ground, and gliding over a parked vehicle before safely landing back on the road. 

This innovative achievement signals a pivotal moment in personal mobility, proving that the concept of flying cars is no longer confined to the realm of science fiction.

After years of dedicated research and development, Alef Aeronautics has achieved significant regulatory milestones. 

The company recently received a special airworthiness certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration, which paved the way for controlled outdoor test flights on a closed track in California. 

This rigorous approval process underscores the company’s commitment to safety and reliability, ensuring that every aspect of the Model A’s design meets stringent standards for both road and aerial operations. 

By focusing on thorough testing and adherence to regulatory guidelines, Alef Aeronautics is setting a high benchmark for future innovations in the transportation sector.

The Model A is engineered to excel in both terrestrial and aerial environments. 

As a fully electric vehicle, it boasts an estimated ground range of 220 miles and an aerial range of 110 miles on a single charge, highlighting its impressive versatility. 

Designed to navigate a variety of terrains—from smooth highways to rugged off-road conditions—the Model A represents a new frontier in personal transportation. 

Despite its advanced technology and futuristic capabilities, the Model A is positioned as a premium product with a projected price of $300,000. 

This price point reflects the cutting-edge research and state-of-the-art engineering that have gone into its development.

Looking to the future, Alef Aeronautics is already planning its next major innovation. 

The company is developing a second model, the Model Z, which is slated for release by 2035. 

In stark contrast to the premium Model A, the Model Z is envisioned as a mass-market vehicle, with an estimated price of around $35,000—comparable to that of a standard sedan today. 

This strategic shift aims to democratize access to aerial transportation, making flying cars accessible to a wider audience and offering a practical solution to urban congestion and commuting challenges.

Since unveiling the Model A, Alef Aeronautics has generated considerable market interest, with over 3,300 pre-orders from individual buyers and corporate clients combined. 

This strong demand reflects a growing desire for innovative transportation solutions that combine efficiency, environmental friendliness, and cutting-edge technology. 

As traffic congestion and pollution persist in urban centers, the integration of electric flying cars into everyday transportation networks could herald a transformative era in urban mobility.

With a clear vision and unwavering commitment to innovation, Alef Aeronautics is setting the stage for a future where the skies become an integral part of our daily commutes. 

The groundbreaking success of the Model A is just the beginning of what promises to be a revolutionary journey toward a new era of limitless, sustainable mobility.