Flying cars have captured public interest for more than a century. In 1894, inventor Hiram Maxim proposed a bird-like flying vehicle with wheels. His idea never reached real-world use and later became an amusement ride. More than 130 years later, a California startup is turning a similar vision into a working product.
Alef Aeronautics, based in California, is developing a road-legal electric flying car. The company was founded in 2015 by Jim Dukhovny, Constantine Kisly, Pavel Markin, and Oleg Petrov. The idea began with a simple sketch inspired by the movie Back to the Future. From day one, the goal stayed clear. Build a fully electric vehicle that drives on public roads and takes off vertically.
Early Development and Models
Within one year, the team built a small prototype. That prototype helped secure early funding. Since then, Alef has focused on two designs. The Model A serves as the first production vehicle. The Model Z targets higher performance and remains under development.
Model A Production Begins
On December 9, 2025, Alef started production of the Model A at its San Mateo, California facility. These early units are hand-built using lightweight materials, including carbon fiber. Each vehicle requires several months to complete.
The Model A uses multiple electric motors and distributed propellers. It lifts vertically without a runway. After takeoff, the vehicle rotates so the body turns sideways. The exterior panels act as wings while the cabin remains upright for passengers.
Driving and Flying Performance
On public roads, the Model A offers a driving range of about 200 miles. Top road speed reaches 25 mph. In flight mode, the car travels up to 110 miles on a single charge with a top airspeed of 110 mph.
Regulatory Status and Timeline
Initial vehicles will go to a limited group of customers for testing and feedback. The Federal Aviation Administration has approved the Model A only for demonstration and research flights. Alef still needs full certification for everyday road use and standard air travel. Public flying use remains several years away.
Strong Demand Despite Limits
Interest remains strong. More than 3,500 customers have placed pre-orders. Each vehicle costs $300,000. While widespread adoption stays distant, Alef has moved flying cars closer to everyday reality than any company before it.
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