Tesla Unveils Flying Roadster With SpaceX Thrusters, Claims 0–60 MPH In Under One Second

Tesla has unveiled its long-awaited next-generation Roadster, featuring SpaceX-inspired thrusters that allow the electric sports car to perform two brief aerial manoeuvres, including flips and jumps over other vehicles.

Revealed on October 15, 2026, at a SpaceX testing facility in Texas in the presence of Tesla CEO Elon Musk, the futuristic two-seater showcased its unusual capabilities, marking a significant development in the Roadster project, which was first unveiled in 2017.

During the demonstration, the autonomous Roadster showcased its SpaceX-engineered suction system by driving up a curved ramp, travelling upside down, launching into the air, rotating and landing on its wheels.

At the event, the long-delayed, futuristic second-generation Roadster also demonstrated its ability to leap over several Tesla vehicles, highlighting the potential of its specialised propulsion technology.

“Turns out the future does have flying cars,” Musk wrote in response to an X post showing the Roadster leaping over Tesla’s current lineup of electric vehicles.

The Roadster’s most advanced version features cold-gas thrusters, a system that enables the car to lift off the ground and perform controlled aerial manoeuvres, although it does not demonstrate sustained flight like a true flying car.

Beyond its flying capabilities, Tesla claims the Roadster can accelerate from zero to 60 mph (97 km/h) in under one second, reach a top speed exceeding 230 mph (370 km/h) and travel approximately 300 miles (483 km) on a single charge.

The new Roadster will be offered in three versions: Performance, Thrust and Rocket. While the Performance version is designed for road use, the Thrust adds cold-gas thrusters, while the exclusive, invitation-only Rocket variant features 10 thrusters for its most ambitious manoeuvres.

Despite the dramatic unveiling, the Roadster is not expected to enter production until 2028. While the legality of its aerial functions on public roads remains uncertain, Tesla has not confirmed whether every capability demonstrated by the prototype will be available in customer vehicles.

By combining high-performance electric motoring with aerospace-inspired technology, Musk is attempting to push the boundaries of automotive engineering and bring the concept of a flying car closer to reality.

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