An electric flying car priced at approximately $300,000 has been granted official approval by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for road and air testing.

Alef Aeronautics, a California-based automaker, announced that it obtained a Special Airworthiness Certification from the FAA for its Model A, which marks the first-ever approval of its kind for a car capable of flight.

Alef’s CEO, Jim Dukhovny, expressed excitement about the certification, stating that it brings them closer to providing individuals and companies with an eco-friendly and quicker commute, saving valuable time.

However, due to changing FAA regulations concerning the unique capabilities of flying cars, the certification also imposes limitations on the permitted locations and purposes for flight operations.

Alef’s objective is to develop the first flying car equipped with both road driving and vertical take-off capabilities. They aim to fit the design seamlessly into existing urban infrastructure for driving and parking. The flying car can take off vertically or horizontally and accommodate up to two passengers. It is expected to have a road range of 200 miles (approx. 322 km) and a flying range of 110 miles (approx. 177 km).

Prospective buyers have the option to pay a $150 deposit to join the general waiting list or $1,500 for priority access when deliveries commence. In January, Alef reported that approximately 440 individuals made deposits during the final quarter of 2022.

The company’s CEO previously stated in an interview with CNBC that customers could anticipate seeing their flying cars in operation as early as 2025.

This is one small step for planes, one giant step for cars.

Jim Dukhovy, CEO, Alef Aeronautics