Alef Aeronautics has taken a key step into the future of mobility by beginning test operations at two strategic airports in Silicon Valley: Half Moon Bay and Hollister. These tests are part of the plan to integrate its flying car within existing air and ground space.
Flying car tests with vertical take-off
Alef is developing an electric car with vertical take-off and landing capabilities. vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) (VTOL), intended for road travel as well as flight. Its initial model, the Model Zero Ultralight, will be the first to operate, followed by full versions of the Model Zero and the future Model A commercial model.
The choice of airports without control towers allows for controlled testing to observe the interaction between the Alef vehicles and other aircraft. Traditional traffic is prioritized, and notification and safety systems are set up to alert nearby aircraft.
Integration with existing airspace
One of the differentiating elements of the Alef’s system system is the incorporation of obstacle recognition technologies using artificial intelligence. This will facilitate its insertion in shared traffic and minimize risks during air and ground movement.
Alef’s vision is not to replace the conventional automobile, but rather to leverage its structure to connect the road ecosystem with the electric aviation. To this end, they are collaborating with airport operators and the FAA to create a viable mixed mobility model.
With the addition of these two new airports, Alef now operates five locations for flight research and development. The company, backed by firms such as Draper Associates and Bronco Ventures, seeks to demonstrate the commercial viability of flying cars in real-world environments.
Source and photo: PR Newswire
