Alef Aeronautics, a cutting-edge flying car company backed by SpaceX, has received an impressive 2,850 preorders for its revolutionary electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicle. Headquartered in San Mateo, California, the company previously announced 2,500 preorders for its futuristic two-seater flying car, the Alef Model A, but has now reached a fresh milestone.
Prospective customers can conveniently place preorders for the Model A online, requiring only a US$150 deposit for the groundbreaking eVTOL vehicle. Notably, customers retain the flexibility to withdraw their deposit at any time, ensuring they are not bound by commitments.
Alef Aeronautics plans to market the Model A at US$300,000 once it hits the commercial market. With a staggering 2,850 preorders in tow, the combined order value stands at over $850 million, solidifying its status as the best-selling aircraft in history. Alef’s CEO, Jim Dukhovny, emphasised this achievement, noting that it surpasses the combined preorders of major players such as Boeing, Airbus, Joby Aviation, and most eVTOL competitors.
Despite the hefty price tag, Dukhovny justifies the cost, emphasising that Alef is still in its startup phase and is yet to generate significant revenue. The company, however, is diversifying its portfolio with plans for a four-person sedan, the Model Z, scheduled for launch by 2035 at a considerably lower price point of $35,000, aligning with more affordable electric vehicle options.
Alef Aeronautics is part of a burgeoning industry of startups endeavouring to turn flying cars into a tangible reality. Alongside notable competitors like Lilium and Joby Aviation, Alef has made waves in the sector. Additionally, SKTelecom, a South Korean telecom firm, has announced plans to collaborate with Joby Aviation, aiming to launch a flying taxi service in 2025.
The driving force behind Alef’s innovative pursuits includes backing from influential figures such as early Tesla investor Tim Draper and Elon Musk’s SpaceX, further highlighting the company’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of aerial transportation technology. The sky is certainly not the limit for Alef Aeronautics as it propels itself into the forefront of the flying car revolution.