Elon Musk, the billionaire entrepreneur behind electric-vehicle manufacturer Tesla and aerospace company SpaceX, has unveiled a new version of the long-awaited Tesla Roadster, featuring rocket-style thrusters that let it perform dramatic aerial manoeuvres.
Musk, who is also known for his involvement in artificial intelligence company xAI, has built a reputation for pursuing ambitious technological projects, from reusable rockets to electric vehicles designed to challenge the traditional automotive industry.
His latest unveiling drew attention after a demonstration in Texas on Thursday, October 15, showed the two-seater sports car performing manoeuvres beyond what conventional road vehicles can do.
The demonstration took place at a SpaceX testing facility in McGregor, where the vehicle showcased its unusual aerial capabilities before an audience of Tesla enthusiasts.
Footage from the event showed the car using specialized technology to lift off the ground, turn in mid-air and land, raising questions about how the technology could eventually be incorporated into a production vehicle.
How Elon Musk’s flying Tesla works
Unlike conventional electric cars, the new Roadster is designed to use specialized systems that allow it to perform manoeuvres beyond ordinary driving.
During the demonstration, the vehicle used a suction system to travel along an inverted ramp before launching into the air, turning mid-flight and landing.
The car also demonstrated its ability to jump over a line of Tesla vehicles using its thrusters.
The technology draws on collaboration between Tesla and SpaceX engineers, combining electric vehicle engineering with propulsion technology associated with rockets.
However, the demonstration does not mean the vehicle can fly like an aeroplane or operate as a conventional flying taxi.
Its aerial capabilities rely on specialized equipment, and questions remain about how the technology will be incorporated into a production vehicle and what restrictions could apply to its use.
Tesla targets 2028 production.
Despite the impressive display, prospective buyers will have to wait before the vehicle becomes available.
Tesla is targeting 2028 for production of the redesigned Roadster, nearly a decade after the company first announced the next-generation model.
According to Reuters, Tesla also demonstrated the vehicle’s acceleration capabilities, with company executives claiming it could reach 60 miles per hour in less than a second
