Chasing Horsepower founder Mike Caudill joined America Reports to discuss Tesla’s new Roadster prototype. With Elon Musk at the helm, Tesla revealed a flying car featuring rocket-powered thrusters capable of accelerating from zero to 60 mph in less than one second.
The demonstration turned heads as a white sports car climbed a curved ramp upside down before launching into the air and safely landing. Musk finally unveiled this redesigned Roadster after nearly nine years, raising questions about whether Tesla will deliver on these ambitious promises.
Flying Sports Car Unveiling
On October 15, 2026, Tesla unveiled the redesigned Roadster at SpaceX’s facility in McGregor, Texas. The event showcased technology akin to spacecraft, featuring a prototype that climbed a ramp using a suction system. Compressed-gas thrusters propelled it into the air, where it rotated midair before safely landing.
The Roadster then flew over other Tesla vehicles, including the Cybertruck and Model Y, all controlled automatically to avoid risk. Musk shared footage of this thrilling event on Tesla’s official social media accounts.
Engineering Innovations
The engineering marvel involves SpaceX technology, utilizing cold-gas thrusters that don’t burn fuel. These thrusters release pressurized gas to propel the vehicle. Additionally, electric fans near the rear create suction, enhancing tire grip even upside down.
The Rocket configuration, with ten thrusters, manages both quick acceleration and airborne maneuvers. This setup involves storage vessels for high-pressure gas, currently requiring six to seven hours to refill. Tesla aims to reduce this time, though sustained flight remains an ambitious goal.
Performance and Variants
The Roadster can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 0.81 seconds, a claim yet to be independently verified. Tesla has multiple configurations, including:
- Performance: Road-focused with active aerodynamics, achieving 60 mph in under 1.6 seconds.
- Thrust: Features rear-mounted cold-gas thrusters, reaching 60 mph in under 0.9 seconds. Limited release planned.
- Rocket: Equipped with additional thrusters for forward acceleration and flight; achieved 60 mph in under 0.59 seconds but only seats one person.
Price and Availability
Tesla initially announced a starting price of $200,000 for the Roadster. However, a final price wasn’t disclosed at the unveiling. Reservations require a substantial initial payment. For the Performance version, a $50,000 reservation is needed, with the Thrust variant requiring $250,000.
The Roadster faces production delays, with deliveries originally expected in 2020 now projected for 2028. Tesla highlights that the Roadster remains under development, warning of potential delivery uncertainties.
The Future of Tesla Vehicles
Musk’s ambitions hint that the Roadster might be among Tesla’s last vehicles designed for human drivers. Despite Tesla’s focus on autonomous vehicles like the Cybercab, the Roadster emphasizes driving thrill, appealing to those who love being behind the wheel.
The launch raises questions about automotive technology’s future, particularly the challenges posed by thrusters and the need for specialized development. Buyers should carefully review terms and specifications before making significant financial commitments.
While the spectacle captivated audiences, tangible results in production and regulative compliance remain hurdles Tesla must overcome.