Elon Musk unveiled Tesla's redesigned Roadster, an electric sports car capable of flying, answering the question of whether flying cars are real. The new Roadster uses built-in thrusters and a suction system to perform flight-like maneuvers, such as driving upside down and flipping in midair, before landing safely. Production is set to begin in 2028.
- The Roadster has three versions: Performance, Thrust, and Rocket.
- The Rocket variant can fly but is not approved for public roads.
- The car uses a multi-mode suction system and cold-gas thrusters for advanced control.
- Acceleration is under one second from zero to 60 mph, with a top speed over 230 mph.
- The Roadster is developed in collaboration with SpaceX, Musk's rocket company.
What are the main features of the new Tesla Roadster?
The new Tesla Roadster is a two-seater electric sports car that can perform extraordinary stunts using advanced technology. It can accelerate from zero to 60 miles per hour in less than a second and reach speeds above 230 mph (370 km/h). The car features a multi-mode fan and ground sealing system that creates suction to hold the vehicle upside down, even when stationary. Cold-gas thrusters provide precise thrust to stabilize and maneuver the car during flight-like moves.
What are the differences between the Roadster variants?
Tesla has introduced three versions of the Roadster:
- Performance: Designed for road use, this variant includes active aerodynamics and a multi-mode suction system to increase downforce and improve traction.
- Thrust: A limited release model that combines the suction system with rear cold-gas thrusters, enabling acceleration from zero to 100 mph in under one second.
- Rocket: Available by invitation only, this single-seat variant has thrusters around the vehicle's perimeter, allowing forward, upward, and lateral rotational movement. It can fly but is not street legal.
How does the Roadster achieve its flying capabilities?
The Roadster's flying ability comes from a combination of a multi-mode fan and ground sealing system that generates downforce by pulling air from beneath the car. This suction allows the vehicle to stick to surfaces even when upside down. Additionally, cold-gas thrusters controlled by electric actuators provide precise thrust for acceleration, stabilization, and complex maneuvers in the air.
When will the Tesla Roadster be available?
Tesla announced that production of the new Roadster will begin in 2028. Pricing details were not disclosed during the unveiling event. Previously, the base price was estimated at $200,000 nearly ten years ago.
What is the connection between Tesla and SpaceX in this project?
The new Roadster was developed in collaboration with SpaceX, Elon Musk's rocket company. This partnership has led to advanced propulsion technology being integrated into the car. Musk also mentioned the growing technological overlap between Tesla and SpaceX, including plans to integrate SpaceX's Starlink satellite internet service into Tesla vehicles like the Cybercab robotaxi.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can the Tesla Roadster Rocket variant be driven on public roads?
A: No, the Rocket variant is designed for flight-like maneuvers and is not approved for use on public roads.
Q: How fast can the Tesla Roadster accelerate?
A: The Roadster can accelerate from zero to 60 miles per hour in under one second.
Q: When will the Tesla Roadster be available for purchase?
A: Production is expected to start in 2028, but exact availability and pricing have not been announced.
Q: What technology allows the Roadster to drive upside down?
A: A multi-mode fan and ground sealing system creates suction that holds the car to surfaces, enabling it to drive upside down.
