The Dawn of Personal Flight: ASKA Aims to Redefine Transportation

Several companies have, in recent years, put forth plans to introduce a vehicle capable of both driving and flying. However, none have yet successfully brought such a concept to fruition. NFT Inc. is now asserting its confidence in achieving this goal, initiating preorders on Thursday for the ASKA – the company’s pioneering electric flying car.

A Plane That Drives: The ASKA Design

The ASKA, whose name translates to “flying bird” in Japanese, is perhaps more accurately described as a roadable aircraft, rather than a flying car. Even with its six rotors retracted, the vehicle distinctly resembles an aircraft, featuring a bubble-like front window reminiscent of a helicopter and a conventional airplane tail.

Deliveries of the ASKA are not expected until 2026. This timeline accounts for the anticipated development of regulations concerning safety and air traffic management, essential for the widespread adoption of these novel aerial mobility solutions.

A company representative has confirmed that preorders are already being accepted, with a price of $789,000. This price encompasses not only the vehicle itself, but also comprehensive pilot training.

Ambitious Goals and Refundable Deposits

To be the first to market with a consumer flying car represents a significant undertaking. NFT has chosen not to disclose information regarding its investors. However, the company has stated that the $5,000 deposits accompanying preorders are fully refundable.

According to co-founders Guy and Maki Kaplinsky, aerial mobility vehicles – with the ASKA leading the way – have the potential to dramatically reshape both urban and suburban lifestyles.

Reimagining Urban and Suburban Living

“The very nature of cities will be altered,” stated Guy Kaplinsky. Maki Kaplinsky further elaborated, “Urban air mobility will redefine the concept of suburbs and rural areas.” She continued, suggesting that wealth will likely shift towards outlying regions, appealing to those residing in surrounding suburban communities.

The potential impact is readily apparent. The constraints of traditional urban living and its associated traffic congestion could be overcome, allowing affluent individuals to relocate to areas beyond the suburbs. With the ASKA’s 250-mile range, they could then travel into cities only when necessary.

Distinctive Features: Door-to-Door Convenience

The Kaplinsky’s emphasize that the ASKA differentiates itself from competitors by eliminating the need for airport access. Regulatory bodies will also avoid the burden of managing a surge of aerial mobility traffic at airports.

Instead, the ASKA is designed for direct, door-to-door transportation. All that is required is sufficient space for the vehicle to deploy its wings and rotors. While capable of conventional airplane-style runway takeoffs, the ASKA also possesses vertical lift capabilities, similar to a helicopter.

Guy Kaplinsky explained that conventional takeoff is more energy efficient, and may be preferred in rural areas with ample space. Vertical landing, however, will be advantageous in urban environments.

Power and Safety Considerations

Each rotor is equipped with its own dedicated battery pack. For added reliability, the company has also incorporated two range extenders powered by gasoline. Furthermore, the central rotors function as wings, enabling gliding in emergency situations.

“Safety is our paramount concern, particularly as many of our users will be novice pilots,” Guy Kaplinsky noted. “Currently, no battery cell developer can guarantee complete reliability in flight, and we cannot accept that risk.” The ASKA may transition to a fully electric system in the future, contingent upon advancements in battery technology.

Semi-Autonomous Technology and the Future of Control

The ASKA will be compact enough to fit within a standard garage or driveway, and can be recharged using existing electric vehicle charging infrastructure. Like several EV manufacturers, ASKA will integrate third-party semi-autonomous technology.

“Given our target demographic includes non-professional pilots, we believe semi-autonomous features will enhance their comfort level, providing a degree of control rather than complete reliance on a fully autonomous system,” a company spokesperson explained to TechCrunch. Even with the potential for full autonomy in the future, the spokesperson added, “many customers will likely appreciate retaining some level of control.”

Experiencing ASKA: Showroom and Founder’s Club

NFT is launching an ASKA showroom in Los Altos, California on Thursday, offering a unique buying experience. Customers will have the opportunity to consult with experts in aerodynamics and flight control.

The first 1,500 preorders will receive a share of the company and be inducted into the “Founder’s Club,” with exclusive access to meetings with company executives every three to six months.