Tesla’s new Roadster makes a flying debut, hitting 60 MPH in under a second
Key Points:
- Tesla unveiled its highly anticipated Roadster with a dramatic demonstration featuring compressed-air thrusters that enabled the car to fly off a ramp, perform midair flips, and accelerate from zero to 60 mph in under one second.
- The event showcased the Roadster's advanced technology, including a fan-based suction system and integrated cold-gas thrusters developed with SpaceX, allowing it to generate 4–5 times the force of tire grip for superior acceleration.
- Tesla CEO Elon Musk described the Roadster as "the best of the last human-driven cars," emphasizing its groundbreaking capabilities and signaling a new era in automotive performance.
- Production of the Roadster is slated to begin in 2028, with reservation payments starting at $50,000 for the Performance version and up to $250,000 for the Thrust variant, while a single-seat "Rocket" model with full flight capabilities will be available by invite only.
- The Roadster's unveiling marks nearly a decade since its initial 2017 concept debut, highlighting Tesla's continued innovation by integrating SpaceX rocket technology into automotive design.