Tesla has unveiled a new electric sports car capable of briefly lifting off the ground, flipping in mid-air, and driving upside down, with production targeted for 2028. The demonstration took place on Thursday, October 15, at SpaceX’s rocket testing facility in McGregor, Texas, nearly nine years after the vehicle was first announced in 2017.
Prototype Demonstration and Features
The prototype of the redesigned Tesla Roadster drove up an inverted ramp, performed an aerial manoeuvre, and landed back on its wheels. It also leapt over a line of Tesla vehicles using rocket-style thrusters developed in collaboration with SpaceX. The thrusters, which are based on technology from Musk’s rocket company, enabled the car to flip in mid-air and drive upside down.
Tesla demonstrated the prototype without a human occupant because of the noise and vibrations produced by the thrusters. The company posted a video on X (formerly Twitter) with the caption “Do a kickflip!” showing the car’s aerial capabilities.
Production Timeline and Versions
Musk stated that Tesla will begin production of the Roadster in 2028, nearly nine years after the electric sports car was first unveiled in 2017. The flying Roadster will come in three versions, including a Rocket model with a full flight system that is not approved for public roads. The company has indicated that its Thrust version will be street legal, though Musk acknowledged uncertainty over whether the vehicle would be legal in every jurisdiction.
Project History and Delays
The unveiling marks a major step for a project that has faced repeated delays since its initial reveal. Tesla had originally planned to begin production much earlier, but the latest target is 2028. The demonstration at the McGregor facility was the first public showing of the redesigned prototype.
The event highlights the integration of SpaceX technology into Tesla’s consumer vehicles, a goal Musk has long pursued. The Roadster’s thrusters are designed to provide short bursts of propulsion, allowing the car to perform stunts that are not possible with conventional electric vehicles.
While the Rocket version is not approved for public roads, the Thrust version is expected to be street legal, subject to regulatory approval in various jurisdictions. Musk’s comments suggest that legal clearance may vary by region, potentially limiting where the flying features can be used.
