Tesla has finally unveiled its next-generation Roadster, nearly a decade after first announcing the electric supercar.
At an event in Waco, Texas, on October 15, Tesla demonstrated a Roadster that briefly left the ground, climbed a steep ramp, performed aerial maneuvers and accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in just 0.81 seconds.
Developed using technology from SpaceX, the new Roadster combines compressed-air thrusters with a powerful suction system.
However, the version capable of flying is not approved for public roads, while production is currently expected to begin in 2028.
Tesla Roadster Takes Flight
Tesla demonstrated the Roadster driving up a large ramp while using its suction system to remain attached to the surface.
At the top, the vehicle used its thrusters to rotate in the air before returning safely to the ground.
In another demonstration, the Roadster lifted off and flew over several Tesla vehicles, including the Cybertruck, Model 3, Model Y, Semi, and Cybercab.
Tesla also demonstrated a 0–60 mph time of 0.81 seconds.
These were controlled demonstrations, and Tesla has not shown the Roadster performing sustained aircraft-style flight.
How the Flying Roadster Works
Instead of using wings or helicopter-style rotors, the Roadster relies on technology inspired by SpaceX.
The vehicle uses 10 cold-gas thrusters powered by compressed air stored inside high-pressure tanks.
The thrusters provide the force needed to lift the vehicle, change direction and stabilize it during short aerial movements.
Tesla’s engineering team says the system uses approximately 600 liters of compressed-air storage and does not burn rocket fuel.
The Roadster also has a fan-powered suction system underneath the vehicle.
This system generates substantial downforce and allows the car to maintain grip during extreme maneuvers, including driving on inverted surfaces.
Three Roadster Versions
Tesla has announced three versions of the Roadster.
| Version | Main Features | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | Two seats, active aerodynamics and suction system | Reservations available |
| Thrust | Two seats, rear cold-gas thrusters and sub-one-second acceleration | Limited release |
| Rocket | One seat, 10 thrusters and brief flying capability | Invitation only |
The Performance version is intended for road use, while the Thrust model focuses on extreme acceleration.
The Rocket version adds the full 10-thruster system and can briefly leave the ground, but Tesla says it is not approved for public-road use.
Inside the New Roadster
The Roadster features a minimalist cabin with a yoke-style steering control, large central touchscreen and sculpted seats.
Tesla has also added steer-by-wire technology and a retractable rear wing.
The interior focuses primarily on performance rather than traditional luxury features.
Price Has Not Been Announced
Tesla has not revealed final retail prices for the new Roadster.
However, the company is reportedly accepting $50,000 reservations for the Performance version and $250,000 reservations for the Thrust version. The Rocket version remains invitation-only.
Tesla’s performance and range figures remain manufacturer claims and have not yet been independently verified on production vehicles.
Production Now Targeted for 2028
Tesla originally unveiled the second-generation Roadster in 2017, with deliveries initially planned for 2020.
The company missed that deadline and delayed the vehicle several times while focusing on other products, including the Model 3, Model Y and Cybertruck.
Tesla is now targeting 2028 for production, which would put the Roadster roughly eight years behind its original delivery schedule.
The latest demonstration shows that Tesla has developed a working prototype capable of unusual acceleration and brief aerial maneuvers.
What remains unclear is how much of that technology will reach customer vehicles, what the final prices will be and whether Tesla will meet its latest production target.
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