Gimballed Flying Car Heading For Production

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Alef Aeronautics is preparing for full-scale manufacturing of its unique Model A flying car, having already secured 3200 pre-orders.
  • The company has signed agreements with PUCARA Aero and MYX for parts, prioritizing safety and compliance as it moves towards mass production.
  • The Model A features an innovative design with a self-centering gimballed flight deck that remains level while the outer platform, housing motors and wheels, adjusts its attitude in flight.
  • Alef received restricted FAA flight approval for its aircraft in 2023.
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One of the most unusual entries in the flying car sweepstakes says it has 3200 pre-orders and is getting set up for full-scale manufacturing. Alef Aeronautics announced it will buy parts from a joint venture by PUCARA Aero and MYX. Alef’s aircraft has a self-centering gimballed flight deck suspended in a screened platform that houses both the wheels and the electric motors that drive it. In flight, the platform changes attitude as circumstances demand while the flight deck always remains level.

“With a growing number of pre-orders and approaching its final design, Alef began to sign agreements to prepare for mass manufacturing for our Model A car,” Alef CEO Jim Dukhovny said. “Safety is our number one priority, so we chose PUCARA Aero and MYC for their impeccable safety record, and compliance with major aviation authorities.” The company got flight approval from the FAA in 2023 but with significant restrictions on where it can fly.

Russ Niles

Russ Niles is Editor-in-Chief of AVweb. He has been a pilot for 30 years and joined AVweb 22 years ago. He and his wife Marni live in southern British Columbia where they also operate a small winery.
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