'Flying Car' Coming Soon... US Grants First Test Flight Approval

Elon Musk-backed 400 Million Won 'Flying Electric Car'
Designed to Fly 177km Distance in the Sky

Elon Musk's space exploration company SpaceX-backed 'flying electric car' has been approved for test flights by U.S. authorities for the first time.

On the 2nd (local time), according to the U.S. economic media Business Insider, startup Aleph Aeronautics announced that its flying electric car 'Model A' had obtained a 'Special Airworthiness Certificate' from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The Special Airworthiness Certificate is a permit issued for research and development aircraft and flight test prototypes, meaning this electric car can undergo actual driving tests on roads and in the air.

A flying car. [Image source=Aleph Aeronautics·Yonhap News]

The company explained that this is the first time such a certificate has been issued for a drivable flying car. The company has been developing Model A with support from SpaceX and others.

Model A is designed to travel up to approximately 321 km on the road per charge and fly about 177 km in the air. The vehicle can accommodate up to two passengers, and the selling price is expected to reach $300,000 (approximately 392.5 million KRW).

Jim Dukhovny, CEO of Aleph Aeronautics, said, "We are pleased to be certified by the FAA," adding, "This car, which allows individuals and companies to save several hours each week by commuting in an environmentally friendly and fast way, will be a game changer."

However, according to FAA regulations, the permitted flight locations and destinations are limited. This is because the performance of this new mode of transportation as a flying vehicle has not yet been fully verified.

To reserve a Model A, a deposit of $150 (approximately 197,000 KRW) is required, and if priority delivery is desired, $1,500 (approximately 1.97 million KRW) must be paid. Production of Model A is scheduled to begin in 2025.

Model A exterior. [Image source=Aleph Aeronautics·Yonhap News]

Earlier, in October last year, Dukhovny stated, "Model A is the fastest and most convenient means of transportation from origin to final destination," adding, "By allowing consumers to choose between driving or flying modes, the car provides the optimal route depending on road conditions, weather, and infrastructure."

Meanwhile, Aleph Aeronautics is developing additional models including the 'Model Z,' a 4-6 passenger sedan. Model Z is targeted for release in 2035 and is expected to have a road range of 644 km and a flight range of 322 km. The price of Model Z is estimated to be $35,000 (approximately 45.79 million KRW).

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.