Tesla’s flying car is here. Here’s all you need to know about the Roadster
Key Points:
- Tesla unveiled a new Roadster featuring rocket thrusters and ground-hugging fans, capable of flying, flipping, and accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in a claimed 0.81 seconds, with production targeted for 2028.
- The car uses compressed air thrusters developed in collaboration with SpaceX, enabling extraordinary maneuvers including airborne flips and cornering forces greater than 2g, while the fan system increases road grip even at low speeds.
- Tesla confirmed the rocket-assisted features will be optional and may not be legal in all markets; the Roadster will be left-hand drive only, and the vehicle demonstrated autonomous flight during stunts without a human driver onboard.
- The design draws aerospace inspiration and includes advanced aerodynamic features such as adjustable wings and a suction fan system, aiming to deliver unmatched acceleration, cornering, and track performance.
- Tesla positions the Roadster as its only long-term manually driven car, emphasizing driving enjoyment, with pricing yet to be announced and Musk hinting at future performance improvements, including a top speed potentially approaching half the speed of sound.