Subaru shows off a new flying rides concept at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show

New Flying Rides - The 2023 Japan Mobility Show is typically a platform for automobile manufacturers to showcase their latest motorized vehicles, taking to the streets with fervor. Subaru, in line with this tradition, presented its newest cars, including the striking Subaru Sport Mobility concept car. This electric vehicle boasts a sporty, aerodynamic design, exuding a fierce demeanor that instantly captures attention.

The Subaru's Air Mobility flying rides concept resembling a multirotor drone, it holds the potential to transport two passengers and adorned with C-shaped headlights. (Picture from: Autoweek)

However, Subaru had a surprise up its sleeve, surpassing the expectations of the event attendees. This iconic Japanese automaker, identified by its six-star emblem, took the opportunity to introduce a groundbreaking concept – a flying vehicle. This awe-inspiring concept, named Subaru Air Mobility, made its debut at the East Exhibition Hall, Tokyo Big Sight, in conjunction with the launch of the Subaru Sport Mobility.

The Subaru's Air Mobility flying rides encapsulates Subaru's vision of the future 'freer mobility'. (Picture from: Autoblog)

Subaru's flying vehicle concept is unlike anything seen before. Resembling a multirotor drone, it holds the potential to transport two passengers. The vehicle is adorned with C-shaped headlights, distinctive rear lights bearing the 'SUBARU' emblem, and a futuristic allure. And this flying marvel model physically exhibited at the Subaru booth.

The Subaru's Air Mobility Concept vehicle featured with six propellers on the sides inside circular body panels while the drive cabin fixed in center with a black glass covering. (Picture from: Autoblog)

Notably, Subaru's flying vehicle concept is in active development, powered by an electric motor and a robust battery system. What adds to the intrigue is Subaru's revelation of having conducted vertical flight and landing tests, signaling a significant step forward in realizing their vision.

A general view of Subaru's Air Mobility Concept vehicle at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show at Tokyo Big Sight in Tokyo, Japan. (Picture from: HTAuto)

Yusuke Ueda, from the Advertising Section Marketing Planning Department within Subaru Corporation's Japan Sales & Marketing Division, shed light on the essence of these innovative concepts. He emphasized that the Sport Mobility and Air Mobility vehicles represent Subaru's futuristic mobility dream.

The Subaru's Air Mobility flying rides concept powered by an electric motor and a robust battery system and featured with distinctive rear lights bearing the 'SUBARU' emblem. (Picture from: Autoweek)

"In the realm of aviation, where electrification and automation technologies continually advance, the anticipation for groundbreaking air mobility solutions is ever-growing. The Subaru Air Mobility Concept encapsulates Subaru's vision of a 'freer mobility' that awaits us in the future," Ueda added.

While details about this ambitious venture remain somewhat veiled, it underscores Subaru's determination to explore unconventional modes of transportation. Given Subaru's historical involvement in aircraft engine manufacturing, this venture into the world of aerial mobility doesn't come as a surprise. The outcomes of this endeavor are eagerly anticipated, and we can only wait with bated breath to witness what the future holds. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUTOWEEK | AUTOBLOG | OTOMOTIF KOMPAS | HTAUTO | BNN.NETWORK ]

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Custom Classics: The Iconic 1960s Cadillac DeVille as a Pickup

Unique ONES - For all you aficionados of vintage American automobiles, the 1960s Cadillac DeVille needs no introduction. This classic symbol of luxury boasts an iconic presence, characterized by its colossal body and distinctive 'fins' adorning the rear end. It was, without a doubt, one of the most coveted vehicles of the swinging 60s.

The 1960s Cadillac DeVille is a classic symbol of luxury boasts an iconic presence, characterized by its colossal body and distinctive 'fins' adorning the rear end. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

The Cadillac DeVille came in both sedan and convertible body styles, available in two or four-door configurations, and it graced the automotive scene for a staggering eight generations, spanning from 1958 to 2005. However, our focus today lies on the second-generation Cadillac DeVille produced in 1961, a vehicle that stands apart due to its unique transformation into a pickup truck, a remarkable modification that saw the light of day in 2015.

This second-generation Cadillac DeVille of 1961 was a vehicle that stands apart due to its unique transformation into a pickup truck. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

According to the seller, this is not your typical "show-off" car but rather a product of painstaking customization – a testament to the 'build, not buy' ethos. Some might even refer to it as a 'labor of love.' This distinctive blue Cadillac DeVille pickup underwent its metamorphosis back in the 1970s and was subsequently utilized by a diligent salesman as his trusty workhorse, ferrying products around town day in and day out.

The conversion of a 1961 Cadillac DeVille into a pickup has preserved its unique interior. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

As we examine this remarkable creation, it becomes evident that it has been lovingly maintained over the years, both in terms of its exterior and interior. While some signs of wear are visible in certain areas, and the paint has started to show signs of aging, it has retained much of its original charm. During its time on the market, this unique Cadillac DeVille pickup was listed for a modest sum of $12,000, roughly equivalent to Rp. 175 million, and it had accumulated a mileage of 94,555 miles (152,171 km) on the odometer.

The conversion of a 1961 Cadillac DeVille into a pickup has preserved its unique interior. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

Beneath the hood, this Cadillac pickup conceals a potent 390 cubic inch V8 engine, boasting a substantial 6.4-liter capacity, which churns out an impressive 345 horsepower. This robust powerplant is seamlessly mated to a Turbo 400 automatic transmission, delivering a smooth and effortless driving experience. The pickup also comes equipped with a trailer hitch, a Kenwood radio-tape stereo system, a tonneau cover to protect your cargo, and, last but not least, the iconic Cadillac hood ornament that never fails to make a statement.

This distinctive blue Cadillac DeVille pickup underwent its metamorphosis back in the 1970s and was subsequently utilized by a diligent salesman as his trusty workhorse, ferrying products around town day in and day out. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

The transformation of the 1961 Cadillac DeVille into a pickup is a testament to the enduring allure of classic American automobiles. This unique vehicle, with its storied history as a workhorse, embodies a blend of nostalgia and practicality that is hard to come by in today's automotive landscape. Whether you're a collector, an enthusiast, or someone with a penchant for one-of-a-kind automobiles, this Cadillac pickup offers a captivating glimpse into the ingenuity and creativity that have long been associated with the world of custom vehicles.

Apologies, no video available for the custom DeVille Pickup; enjoy a video about the Cadillac Coupe DeVille instead.

In conclusion, this 1961 Cadillac DeVille pickup is not just a vehicle; it's a piece of automotive history that has been lovingly preserved and modified over the years. Its distinctive appearance and remarkable backstory make it a truly unique find for anyone with an appreciation for classic cars. So, if you're in the market for a piece of Americana that's both stylish and practical, this Cadillac DeVille pickup might just be the perfect choice for you. Don't miss the opportunity to own a piece of the past that's sure to turn heads wherever you go. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | JALOPYJOURNAL ]

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Unveiling the Fascinating History of the Stipa Caproni Aircraft

Weird ONES - Prepare to be amazed as we delve into the captivating world of aviation history. Picture this: the early 1930s, a time of daring experimentation in the aviation industry, where aircraft designs took on the most peculiar forms and sizes. Amidst this frenzy of innovation, one aircraft truly stood out - the Stipa-Caproni.

The Stipa-Caproni, often dubbed the "flying barrel," boasted a fuselage that was essentially a long tube, housing an engine and propeller. (Picture from: Imodeler)

This experimental Italian aircraft emerged in 1932. Its defining feature was the hollow, barrel-shaped fuselage that completely enclosed the engine and propeller. In essence, the entire fuselage acted as a single ducted fan.

Designed by the visionary Italian aeronautical engineer, Luigi Stipa, and brought to life by the skilled craftsmen at the Caproni Company, the Stipa-Caproni was unlike anything seen before. It resembled something out of a cartoon, with its unconventional appearance. However, don't be fooled by its quirky looks; this aircraft was not just a novelty – it was highly functional.

The Stipa-Caproni, also known as the Caproni Stipa, was an experimental Italian aircraft designed in 1932 by Luigi Stipa and built by Caproni. (Picture from: AviationTrail)

The Stipa-Caproni, often dubbed the "flying barrel," boasted a fuselage that was essentially a long tube, housing an engine and propeller. What made this design truly revolutionary was its ability to channel and manipulate airflow through the cylinder's length, generating powerful thrust in the process.

While some aviation experts may argue that the Stipa-Caproni holds the title for the "ugliest aircraft ever built," and others may dismiss it as an aerodynamic oddity, there is a compelling case to be made that this peculiar creation served as a direct precursor to the modern turbofan engine.

Although the Regia Aeronautica (Italian Royal Air Force) was not interested in pursuing development of the Stipa-Caproni, its design was an important step in the development of jet propulsion. (Picture from: Aeropedia)

Stipa's groundbreaking concept, which he aptly named the "intubed propeller," centered on mounting the engine and propeller inside a fuselage that formed a tapered duct, resembling a venturi tube. This duct served to compress the propeller's airflow and the engine exhaust before expelling them through the aircraft's trailing edge, effectively applying Bernoulli's principle to enhance the propeller's efficiency.

Though similar in principle to modern turbofan engines, the Stipa-Caproni used a piston engine to drive the compressor and propeller, rather than a gas turbine. In later years, Luigi Stipa became convinced that German rocket and jet technology, notably the V-1 flying bomb, had borrowed heavily from his patented invention without due credit. It's worth noting, however, that his ducted fan design had little mechanical resemblance to turbojet engines and shared no similarities with the pulsejet utilized in the V-1.

The Stipa-Caproni design was found to be a success but the aircraft built was too heavy for the power provided by the engine and the Stipa Caproni, along with its successor, the Caproni Campini N.1, was later scrapped. (Picture from: MetroCFlying)

Stipa dedicated years to refining his concept through mathematical analysis while working within the Engineering Division of the Italian Ministry of Air Force. He determined that the inner surface of the venturi tube needed to be shaped like an airfoil to maximize efficiency. He also pinpointed the ideal propeller shape, the optimal distance between the tube's leading edge and the propeller, and the ideal propeller revolution rate.

His persistence eventually paid off when he petitioned the Italian Fascist government to support the production of a prototype aircraft. Eager to showcase Italy's technological prowess, particularly in aviation, the government contracted the renowned Caproni company to construct the aircraft in 1932. Surprisingly, the Italian Royal Air Force, or Regia Aeronautica, showed little interest in advancing the Stipa-Caproni's development. Nevertheless, its innovative design would leave an indelible mark on the evolution of jet propulsion.

Replica of the 1932 Stipa Caproni was meticulously constructed by Bryce Wolff of Aerotec Pty Ltd for Guido Zuccoli in 1996 and completed in 2001. (Picture from: AndreaPaduano)

The resulting aircraft was a mid-wing monoplane primarily crafted from wood, christened the Stipa-Caproni or Caproni Stipa. Its fuselage resembled a short, fat barrel, open at both ends to form the tapered duct. Twin open cockpits were situated atop a hump on the fuselage. The elliptical wings passed through the duct and the engine nacelle inside it. To enhance handling, the ducted propeller wash flowed directly over the fairly small rudder and elevators mounted on the duct's trailing edge as it exited the fuselage.

Within the fuselage tube, the propeller was mounted flush with the leading edge. The 120-horsepower (89 kW) de Havilland Gipsy III engine that powered it resided within the duct, positioned behind the propeller at the fuselage's midpoint. The aircraft featured fixed, spatted main landing gear and a tailwheel. Its striking blue-and-cream color scheme, reminiscent of racing aircraft of the era, was a testament to its Italian heritage, with the colors of the Italian flag proudly displayed on its rudder.

In conclusion, the Stipa-Caproni may have been unconventional and, to some, aesthetically peculiar, but its innovative design and principles paved the way for advancements in aviation technology. Luigi Stipa's vision, while not immediately embraced, left an indelible mark on the world of aviation and jet propulsion. The Stipa-Caproni serves as a testament to the power of unconventional thinking and the boundless possibilities within the realm of human ingenuity. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | UASVISION | IMODELER | AEROPEDIA | ANDREAPADUANO | AVIATIONTRAIL ]

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Škoda Winnetou: The Prototype That Stole the Show but Never Hit the Road

Remained in the Dream - In the world of Czech automotive history, Škoda's convertibles, the Škoda 450 and later the Felicia, were celebrated for their beauty and allure. They not only made waves in the domestic Czech market but also drew attention abroad. However, with the production of the Felicia coming to an end in 1964, it marked the conclusion of an era for open-top Mladá Boleslav brand cars. Though there were plans to resurrect the convertible spirit, the Škoda Winnetou, it remained a dream unfulfilled.

The Škoda Winnetou roadster prototype was conceived in the 1960s by Škoda's Swiss importers, A.P. Glättli AG, based near Zurich in Dietlikon. (Picture from: Auto.cz)

Surprisingly, the birth of this exotic car in Mladá Boleslav during the socialist era was not a product of Škoda's own designers. Instead, it was conceived in the 1960s by its Swiss importers, A.P. Glättli AG, based near Zurich in Dietlikon. Their vision was to craft a stylish roadster based on an existing Škoda model and offer it to customers in Western Europe at an attractive price point.

The Škoda Winnetou's vision was to craft a stylish roadster based on an existing Škoda model and offer it to customers in Western Europe at an attractive price point. (Picture from: AutoRevue.cz)

In 1967, the prototype of a sporty convertible, bearing the curious name Škoda Winnetou, named after the "Apache Chief" from Karl May's books. This roadster made its global debut in March 1967 at the Geneva Motor Show, where it immediately captured the spotlight. Even today, its distinctive design continues to captivate enthusiasts. This two-seater roadster came together rather swiftly and, as per available information, underwent assembly in Aachen, Germany by Hubert Souren KG, where the laminate body designed by American Bill Devin was also produced.

The Škoda Winnetou roadster prototype (no.3 from the left) made its global debut in March 1967 at the Geneva Motor Show, where it immediately captured the spotlight. (Picture from: AutoRevue.cz)

The Škoda Winnetou featured a space frame crafted from steel profiles, equipped with axles borrowed from the popular Škoda 1000 MBX and coupled with components from Volkswagen. Nestled at the rear, the engine powered the rear wheels. Measuring a mere 3,815 millimeters in length, 1,595 millimeters in width, and, with the emergency canvas roof included, 1,300 millimeters in height, it epitomized compactness.

The Škoda Winnetou featured a space frame crafted from steel profiles, equipped with axles borrowed from the popular Škoda 1000 MBX and coupled with components from Volkswagen. (Picture from: AutoRevue.cz)

Stepping inside, the cabin offered accommodations for just two passengers, embodying simplicity and functionality. Under the sloping front hood, only a toolkit and a battery found their place, while the lone "luggage" compartment was inconveniently positioned at the rear, right alongside the engine in the engine compartment.

The Škoda Winnetou measuring a mere 3,815 millimeters in length, 1,595 millimeters in width, and, with the emergency canvas roof included, 1,300 millimeters in height, it epitomized compactness. (Picture from: AutoRevue.cz)

The powertrain concealed beneath the Winnetou's hood did not pack a punch. The 1.0-liter four-cylinder engine, borrowed also from the Škoda 1000 MBX, churned out a modest output of around fifty horsepower. This performance was far from impressive, especially for a car weighing just under 600 kilograms. 

In front of the driver was a three-spoke steering wheel with a wooden wreath, a speedometer calibrated to an even more optimistic 180 km/h, a coolant temperature gauge and a fuel gauge located on the left. (Picture from: AutoRevue.cz)

When the Winnetou underwent performance testing in Mladá Boleslav to determine its fate, it fell far short of expectations. Rather than achieving the claimed top speed of 160 km/h, the car reached a mere 126 km/h during testing. Accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h was a painstakingly slow process, taking 30.2 seconds. The amalgamation of these performance setbacks, coupled with the inherent impracticality of the design and a relatively high price by Škoda's standards, sealed the fate of the Winnetou. 

The Škoda Winnetou roadster prototype powered by a rear-mounted 1.0-liter four-cylinder engine, taken from the Škoda 1000 MBX, churned out a modest output of around 50 hp. (Picture from: AutoRevue.cz)

The Winnetou's primary allure was its price, which was anticipated to remain under 7,900 Swiss francs. This undercut the competition's pricing across Europe at the time. However, even with this compelling pricing strategy, the Winnetou failed to secure a green light for production. It remained a prototype and never transitioned into production. The sole existing prototype is rumored to have ended up in the possession of a private collector. Apologies, the following video pertains to the Felicia roadster, Škoda Winnetou's predecessor, not the Winnetou itself.

In hindsight, the Škoda Winnetou remains a captivating footnote in automotive history, symbolizing a unique chapter in the brand's journey. While it may never have dominated the roads, it continues to kindle the imaginations of automotive enthusiasts worldwide, commemorating 56 years since its debut back in the 1967. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUTO.CZ | DENIK.CZ | AUTOREVUE.CZ | ALLCARINDEX | WIKIPEDIA ]

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XPeng AeroHT: Embracing the Future of Personal Aviation

TRY 2 FLY - The desire to soar through the skies has fueled humanity's innovation, giving birth to unique creations that were once deemed impossible. Among these groundbreaking inventions is the advent of flying cars, a fusion of airplanes and automobiles, which has taken transportation to new heights. Countless manufacturers worldwide have fearlessly ventured into this realm, meticulously crafting their own versions of revolutionary flying machines.

XPeng is preparing to launch the groundbreaking AeroHT, encompassing the 6th generation flying car, scheduled for production in 2024. (Picture from: OtomotifTempo)

From the Terrafugia Transition in the United States to the PAL-V in the Netherlands, and the Carplane in Germany, the race to create the perfect flying car knows no bounds. Even Slovakian engineers have made significant strides with the AirCar Prototype 1, highlighting the widespread allure of airborne mobility. Notably, the recent launch of the Alef Model A has also added to the excitement in this rapidly evolving industry.

The XPeng X2 is the company's recent electric powered flying car products. (Picture from: AeroHT)

One remarkable participant in this thrilling race is China's electric vehicle giant, XPeng, which has successfully introduced an electric flying car named XPeng X2. Moreover, rumors have surfaced that the Chinese company is preparing to launch the groundbreaking AeroHT, encompassing the 6th generation flying car, scheduled for production in 2024. XPeng's vision transcends a singular model, as the company envisions a future abundant with a fleet of advanced flying cars.

The XPeng AeroHT represents an innovative electric flying vehicle, meticulously engineered with a plethora of contemporary safety features and a state-of-the-art foldable rotor mechanism. (Picture from: GoOto)

The AeroHT represents an innovative electric flying vehicle, meticulously engineered with a plethora of contemporary safety features and a state-of-the-art foldable rotor mechanism. Sporting a futuristic supercar design, this flying car boasts aerodynamic contours and a partially enclosed rear wheel, capturing the imagination of transportation enthusiasts. Notably, the AeroHT is deemed roadworthy, equipped for both terrestrial and aerial travel, and complies with all necessary legal requirements for highway driving.

The XPeng AeroHT flying car boasts aerodynamic contours and a partially enclosed rear wheel, capturing the imagination of transportation enthusiasts. (Picture from: OtomotifTempo)

Upon activation, the AeroHT flying car will unveil its gullwing door located behind the cabin, revealing an elongated rotor that forms the wing with a propeller at the end. Promising vertical take-off and landing capabilities, this innovative car eliminates the need for lengthy runways, setting it apart from conventional airplanes.

While specific details regarding the AeroHT's performance remain shrouded in mystery, its exterior design speaks volumes about its potential. The aerodynamic and stylish appearance of the flying car demands attention, leaving onlookers mesmerized by the prospect of a flying future.

The XPeng AeroHT's interior boasts cutting-edge technology, is equipped with a transparent infotainment system that seamlessly integrates with the driver's view. (Picture from: OtomotifTempo)

Although technical specifications are scarce, those in the automotive world eagerly anticipate updates on the flying car's flight range, speed, and altitude capabilities. XPeng's endeavor hints at a transformational shift in the way people move, revolutionizing daily commuting and long-distance travel alike.

Beyond the dazzling exterior, the AeroHT's interior boasts cutting-edge technology. The flying car is equipped with a transparent infotainment system that seamlessly integrates with the driver's view, providing a futuristic driving experience like no other.

As mentioned on the official AeroHT website, the flying car design is currently in its developmental phase, showcasing its latest appearance as depicted in the image above. The flying vehicle exudes a captivating charm with its four propellers gracefully mounted on retractable arms, cleverly stowed on the roof when not in use.

In further developments, the AeroHT design displays evolved into a car with captivating charm, coupled with four propellers gracefully mounted on retractable arms, cleverly stowed on the roof when not in use. (Picture from: AeroHT)

As XPeng's AeroHT takes flight, it ushers in a new era of transportation where the boundaries between land and air dissolve seamlessly. Positioned at the forefront of the flying car revolution, XPeng's commitment to innovation promises even more groundbreaking models in the years to come. 

As enthusiasts eagerly await further details on the AeroHT's capabilities, the future envisions limitless possibilities in the skies, where dreams of flying cars become a reality. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | XPENG AEROHT | HINDUSTANTIMES | CARSCOOPS ]

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Aerwinds Xturismo hoverbike ready to fly in 2025

New HOVERBIKE - Various innovations in current technology have led to the development of several flying vehicles, including flying taxis, flying cars, and the latest addition, flying motorbikes. Just imagine, in the near future, looking up at the blue sky, you might witness the sight of hoverbikes gracefully gliding through the air. If you've ever dreamed of such a futuristic scene, your dream is about to become a reality.

The Xturismo hoverbike was created by Japanese startup Aerwins Technologies. (Picture from: TheDetroitNews)

Bringing us closer to this exciting prospect is the recent showcase of the Xturismo, the flagship hoverbike innovation, by Aerwins Technologies at the Detroit Auto Show in September 2022 then. Originating from Japan, Aerwins (under name of A.L.I. Technologies) had previously presented a prototype of the Xturismo back in 2021, positioning themselves as pioneers in the flying motorbike industry.

The Aerwins Xturismo hoverbike on action during the Detroit Auto Show in September 2022 then. (Picture from: VOI)

During its first flight demonstration in Japan, Xturismo was hailed as the vehicle of the future, as it promises to reduce road congestion significantly. The Xturismo weighs 660 pounds (approximately 330 kg) and can fly for an impressive 40 minutes, reaching speeds of up to 98.8 km per hour. 

The Aerwins Xturismo hoverbike on action during the Detroit Auto Show in September 2022 then. (Picture from: BlackXperience)

It can fly for 40 minutes, and reaches speeds of up to 62 miles per hour (100 kph). However, with such cutting-edge technology, the Xturismo hoverbike comes with a price tag equivalent to that of a sports car over $77,000.

Now, in 2023, the founder of Aerwins has set a new target: to make the Xturismo accessible as a mass-market vehicle. This involves finding ways to reduce production costs significantly, making it more affordable for the general public.

Aerwins aims to reach the commercial market by 2025, offering a lighter and more budget-friendly version of the Xturismo, priced at around $50,000.(approx Rp.745 million) This advancement will pave the way for a future where flying motorbikes become a practical and feasible mode of transportation for many. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AERWINS | THEDETROITNEWS ]

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The Future of Mobility: Alef Aeronautics Introduces Model A, the World's First Flying Car

Flying CAR - In the face of escalating traffic congestion, various stakeholders, particularly those in the industrial sector, are actively seeking innovative solutions. One such groundbreaking development is the emergence of flying cars. Alef Aeronautics, the world's first flying car manufacturer, has recently received official approval to conduct road and air trials for their highly anticipated vehicle, the Model A.

The Model A flying electric car produced by Alef Aeronautics, has obtained the Special Airworthiness Certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). (Picture from; InsideEVs)

As pioneers in the field of flying cars, Alef Aeronautics has obtained the Special Airworthiness Certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This certification ensures compliance with safety standards set by the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration and outlines the authorized flight locations and destinations for the vehicle.

The Model A flying electric car produced by Alef Aeronautics can already be ordered by consumers, the price of which is US$ 300,000 or the equivalent of Rp. 4.5 billion. (Picture from; CNN-Indonesia)

Jim Dukhovny, the CEO of Alef Aeronautics, expressed his enthusiasm regarding this significant milestone, acknowledging the contributions of trailblazers like Terrafugia, Paul Moller, and Henry Ford. He emphasized that the Model A is not only the world's first electric car to receive permission to fly but also incorporates the much-anticipated vertical take-off capability, which is central to people's vision of flying cars. Meanwhile, the amount of cargo that can be carried by this flying car is 200 pounds or around 90.7 kilograms including passengers and baggage.

The Model A flying car is not only the world's first electric car to receive permission to fly but also incorporates the much-anticipated vertical take-off capability. (Picture from; InsideEVs)

According to the Code of Federal Regulations, the company is required to promptly report any issues, damages, or defects encountered during the development and testing phase of Model A to the relevant US government agencies.

The Model A flying car is a 100 percent electric vehicle that is designed to operate on public roads, with the added advantage of vertical take-off and landing capabilities. (Picture from; CNN-Indonesia)

Headquartered in Santa Clara, California, Alef Aeronautics has also announced the pricing details for the Model A, with the vehicle priced at approximately $300,000 or Rp.4,518,750,000.

"The Model A is a 100 percent electric vehicle that is designed to operate on public roads, with the added advantage of vertical take-off and landing capabilities," the company stated in an official release.

Top view of the Model A flying car 'Model A' produced by Alef Aeronautics. (Picture from; CNN-Indonesia)

While primarily intended for low-speed travel, reaching speeds of around 25 miles per hour on paved surfaces, the Model A can achieve significantly higher speeds when leveraging its flying capabilities to navigate through the air.

The pre-sale phase for the Model A commenced on June 30, 2023. Prospective customers can secure a spot on the waiting list by depositing of $150 (Rp.2,250,000). For priority placement, customers have the option to pay a deposit of $1,500 (Rp.22,500,000). Alef Aeronautics aims to begin delivering the flying cars to customers by the end of 2025.

The amount of cargo that can be carried by the Model A flying car is 200 pounds or around 90.7 kilograms including passengers and baggage. (Picture from; InsideEVs)

Established in 2015 by Jim Dukhovny, Konstantin Kisly, Pavel Markin, and Oleg Petrov in Palo Alto, California, Alef Aeronautics has been actively conducting tests and experimental flights with their flying cars since 2019.

The Model A flying car boasts an impressive range of approximately 200 miles on the road and 110 miles in the air. (Picture from; InsideEVs)

The commercially available version of the Model A boasts an impressive range of approximately 200 miles on the road and 110 miles in the air. Jim Dukhovny expressed his excitement upon receiving the FAA certification, stating, "This brings us one step closer to providing a greener and faster mode of transportation, saving valuable time for individuals and businesses alike. It's a small step for airplanes but a significant leap for cars."

Alef Aeronautics maintains that their flying car, the Model A, marks a significant milestone in transportation innovation, propelling society towards a future of efficient and environmentally friendly travel options. With each passing day, the dream of flying cars becomes increasingly tangible, bringing us closer to a new era of mobility. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ALEF AERONAUTICS | CNN | INSIDEEVS ]

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