ASKA A5 eVTOL: First Flying Car with FAA and DMV Approval
ASKA A5 – the electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) vehicle, developed by US air mobility company ASKA, recently received authorization from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The drive and fly technology offers the opportunity to not only drive on public roads but also travel by air.
ASKA A5 is a four-seat vehicle comparable to the size of an SUV. It is also able to reach highway speeds. The specifications include a flying speed of up to 150 mph (240 kph) and a flight range of 250 miles (400 km). The aircraft features six electric motors that are mounted on the wings, which are powered by batteries. However, an engine that runs on premium gasoline is used for range extension and battery recharge.
The A5 prototype has successfully conducted more than 300 miles (483 km) of road testing around Silicon Valley with a DMV number plate. In a press release, the Chair and COO and cofounder Maki Kaplinsky said, “Being the first electric flying car developer to be successfully conducting driving tests on local roads in California validates our efforts to develop an eVTOL that is roadable and with an emphasis on safety,” Furthermore, CEO and cofounder Guy Kaplinsky said that “ASKA A5 is the size of an SUV with its wings folded, so it can drive in normal traffic conditions and shares the road with other vehicles,”
Still, the Certificate of Authorization and Special Airworthiness Certification from the FAA does not permit the commercial sale of the ASKA A5, but the company is able to conduct flight testing. Alongside the authorization from the US Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for driving on public roads, this aircraft is the first flying car that has received authorization from both the FAA and DMV.
Pre-orders started back in 2021, and the company already has over 60 pre-ordered aircraft, totaling $50 million. The price currently stands at $789,000. The company is headquartered in California, US.
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