This eVTOL with four wheels continues to promote the concept of the 'flying car.'

This eVTOL with four wheels continues to promote the concept of the 'flying car.'

      NBC News via YouTube

      The flying car is here! At least that's what an EV startup wants you to believe. Videos released by Alef Aeronautics featuring its “Model A” taking flight over SUVs have understandably gone viral. News outlets and influencers are captivated, yet no one is labeling Alef’s flying car for what it truly is: a large drone on a gimbal.

      Alef seems quite eager to share this news. Its press kit is readily accessible, and CEO Jim Dukhovny has been frequently seen in the media. However, details about the vehicle are minimal and unclear.

      Alef claims that the electric Model A is classified as a low-speed vehicle (LSV) that will have “legal speed and other limitations in most states,” boasting a driving range of 200 miles and a flight range of 110 miles. Are those ranges applicable simultaneously or separately? What type of powertrain does it have? How long does charging take? What are the maximum speeds on the ground and in the air? And what about safety? *shrug*

      According to a report from BBC News, Alef's lack of transparency on many aspects is to protect its technology. “The company isn’t revealing much in a bid to protect its intellectual property,” noted Chris Vallance, a senior technology reporter for BBC News.

      What Alef has disclosed includes elaborate claims. For instance, the Model A is described as the “first true ‘flying car’ by definition of being a car with vertical takeoff.” The quotes around "flying car" are from Alef itself. Furthermore, the Model A is the first “car” to obtain an FAA Special Airworthiness Certificate. The company differentiates its vehicle from an eVTOL by stating that the Model A does not require an airport for operation and can also be driven.

      Based on the language in the fact sheet and comparisons to other aircraft and vehicles, it seems Alef is essentially indicating that the Model A is an eVTOL without explicitly saying so. In CGI simulations, the Model A is depicted as part of a futuristic skyline, with vehicles flying in a single file along an invisible highway.

      Other video renderings showcase the Model A shifting from a car stance into biplane mode, smoothly navigating between mountains or lifting off from a hilltop parking lot toward the city. The gimbal-designed cockpit rotates as needed, resembling a TIE fighter but notably less impressive. It all appears fantastic, much like something out of Star Wars—unbelievable.

      In reality, the Model A takes off slowly and with some instability, similar to a drone being piloted by a novice. The sound it produces is not akin to that of a car or an airplane. Thanks to those multiple propellers (eight, according to the CGI), the Model A sounds like a swarm of bees being pursued by a weed wacker.

      Regarding that flight, it consisted of a pre-recorded video package distributed by Alef. BBC News’ Vallance mentioned, “We also didn’t get to see the car perform some of the more complex maneuvers it needs for efficient flight.” NBC News had a comparable experience. Although offered an exclusive view of a live test flight, reporter Steve Patterson stated his team had to watch from “half a football field away” (0:47 mark). No one witnessed a driver-pilot entering or exiting the cockpit either.

      There’s no information about the cockpit space, but a publicly accessible image reveals two seats. However, other artwork suggests a capacity of one. If that's the case, the flying car doesn't seem very practical. Is there even space for groceries or, perhaps, a backpack? What about safety features? “The safety of the actual vehicle is sufficient for consumers,” Dukhovny told BBC News.

      Reportedly, over 3,200 individuals have pre-ordered the Model A, priced at $299,999. Pre-order deposits start as low as $150 and are fully refundable. Nonetheless, Dukhovny indicated that production of the Model A is expected to commence either at the end of this year or in early 2026.

This eVTOL with four wheels continues to promote the concept of the 'flying car.' This eVTOL with four wheels continues to promote the concept of the 'flying car.' This eVTOL with four wheels continues to promote the concept of the 'flying car.' This eVTOL with four wheels continues to promote the concept of the 'flying car.' This eVTOL with four wheels continues to promote the concept of the 'flying car.' This eVTOL with four wheels continues to promote the concept of the 'flying car.' This eVTOL with four wheels continues to promote the concept of the 'flying car.' This eVTOL with four wheels continues to promote the concept of the 'flying car.'

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This eVTOL with four wheels continues to promote the concept of the 'flying car.'

The Alef Model A claims to have a driving range of 200 miles and can fly for 110 miles, yet there have been no sightings of anyone actually driving or flying it.