Tesla Unveils Its Flying Car with SpaceX Thrusters

Tesla CEO Elon Musk has demonstrated a redesigned electric Roadster that can flip in the air and land using rocket-style thrusters developed with SpaceX. The two-seat sports car also features claimed acceleration from zero to 60 mph in under a second, but customers may have to wait until 2028 for production.

Tesla unveiled its next-generation Roadster on Thursday, October 15, at a SpaceX test facility in McGregor, Texas. The demonstration showed the white sports car climbing an inverted ramp using suction, flipping through the air and landing with the help of built-in thrusters.

The vehicle later used the system to jump over a line of parked Tesla vehicles. It performed the stunts without a driver inside, with Musk saying the decision was made to avoid putting anyone at risk.

How the Roadster’s Flying System Works

The Roadster uses 10 nozzles and high-pressure air tanks to generate thrust. Tesla demonstrated short aerial maneuvers, but the event did not establish that the vehicle can sustain long-distance flight like an aircraft.

Musk described the car as a collaboration between Tesla and SpaceX. The legality of using its thrusters on public roads has not been established.

Tesla also claims the Roadster can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in less than one second, reach a top speed above 230 mph and travel more than 300 miles on a charge. The company has not disclosed the new model’s price.

Production Follows Years of Delays

Tesla first unveiled its second-generation Roadster in November 2017 and initially targeted production for 2020. The company has repeatedly delayed the vehicle, with Musk now pointing to 2028 for production to begin.

The latest demonstration gives Tesla fans a look at the redesigned model, but its final specifications, pricing and delivery schedule remain unconfirmed.

The Roadster also arrives as Tesla expands its focus on autonomous vehicles and robotics. Analysts view the sports car as a showcase for the company’s engineering, although its commercial impact remains uncertain.