Tesla demonstrated its next-generation Roadster on Thursday, showcasing the vehicle’s ability to perform mid-air flips and hover using SpaceX-derived thrusters. The event, livestreamed from a SpaceX test site in McGregor, Texas, marked the first public display of the car’s claimed flying capabilities.
Elon Musk unveiled the Roadster’s features, including a 0-60 mph acceleration in 0.81 seconds, a top speed of 230 mph, and a suction fan system generating 2G of downforce to enhance road grip. The demonstration featured the car launching up an inverted ramp, flipping mid-air, and briefly hovering before landing safely. Musk stated the vehicle could perform rolls and other maneuvers, though he cautioned it was not optimized for safety. He also reiterated a 2028 target for production, first announced in 2017.
Tesla reopened reservations for the Roadster in recent weeks, accepting $50,000 deposits in the U.S., Canada, and China. The company has repeatedly delayed the vehicle’s release, with Musk previously promising a demo by late 2025. The Roadster’s design incorporates cold gas thrusters from SpaceX, intended to improve speed, braking, and flight capabilities. Tesla’s original Roadster, introduced in 2008, was discontinued in 2012.
The event drew significant attention from Tesla enthusiasts, though analysts note the Roadster’s high-end, low-volume model is unlikely to have a major financial impact on the company. Musk has framed the vehicle as a breakthrough in automotive technology, emphasizing its performance and novelty over practicality.