World's first flying car built by US firm to start operations

US-based company Alef is set to begin test operations of the world’s first flying car at Silicon Valley’s Hollister and Half Moon Bay airports. After nearly a decade of development, Alef’s vehicle—classified as an ultralight—can function both as a road car and a vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft. The initial tests will focus on integrating the flying car safely alongside other aircraft in controlled, non-towered airport environments. Alef plans to start with its Model Zero Ultralight and eventually expand to other models, including the commercial Model A. The fully electric flying car offers a driving range of 200 miles and a flight range of 110 miles, consuming less energy per trip than typical electric vehicles like Tesla. Its ultralight classification exempts it from certain legal certifications but restricts operations to daylight hours and prohibits flights over densely populated areas. Alef has already garnered over 3,300 pre-orders, with an expected price around $300,000