On 15 October 2026, Tesla officially unveiled the new generation of its Roadster electric sports car, developed using SpaceX technology. During the presentation at a test site in Texas, the car demonstrated a brief flight, mid-air manoeuvres and the ability to drive upwards on its wheels thanks to a special design. The new model features a system of gas thrusters capable of generating additional thrust. The manufacturer promises that the most powerful version, the Rocket, will accelerate to 96 km/h in less than 0.59 seconds. Mass production is scheduled to begin in 2028.
- Tesla has unveiled the new Roadster, featuring SpaceX thrusters.
- The car performed a short flight and a spin in the air.
- Three versions are available: Performance, Thrust and Rocket.
- The Rocket is claimed to accelerate to 96 km/h in less than 0.59 seconds.
The Tesla Roadster took to the skies in front of an audience for the first time
Presentation of the new generation Roadster took place at the SpaceX test site near the town of McGregor in Texas. The highlight of the event was a demonstration of the car’s capabilities, which go beyond those of conventional electric vehicles.
First, the sports car drove onto a special curved structure, using a system that pressed it against the surface. The car was able to move even whilst upside down. After that, the car broke away from the structure, performed a somersault in the air and landed on its wheels.
During another demonstration, the Roadster soared above several Tesla vehicles, including the Cybertruck, Cybercab, Model 3 and Model Y, as well as the Semi lorry.
According to Elon Musk, these capabilities are provided by special thrusters developed in collaboration with SpaceX engineers. However, the manoeuvres demonstrated do not mean that the Roadster is capable of sustained flight like an aeroplane. What is being demonstrated is a brief lift-off from the surface, made possible by additional thrust.
Three versions of the Tesla Roadster: from a sports car to a flying car
Tesla has unveiled three versions of the new Roadster, each with its own specifications and purpose.
Performance — road version
A two-seater electric sports car with active aerodynamics and a downforce system. Claimed acceleration to 96 km/h in less than 1.6 seconds.
Thrust — the sports version
A two-seater version with additional compressed gas turbochargers at the rear of the body. Tesla claims it can accelerate to 96 km/h in less than 0.9 seconds.
Rocket — the flight-capable version
A single-seater car with gas-powered thrusters positioned around the body. The manufacturer claims that acceleration to 96 km/h in less than 0.59 seconds and a top speed of over 370 km/h.
The Rocket version is set to be available by invitation only. It is not authorised for use on public roads.
How SpaceX’s rocket boosters work
The Roadster’s key technical feature is its system of accelerators that use high-pressure gas. Unlike conventional rocket engines, in which thrust is generated by the combustion of fuel, this system operates by rapidly expelling compressed gas.
According to the information Tesla, the car is fitted with ten fuel injectors and tanks with a combined capacity of around 600 litres. The special tanks are made from carbon fibre and are designed to withstand high pressure.
Depending on their position, the thrusters can generate thrust in different directions. This enables the vehicle not only to accelerate rapidly, but also to lift off the ground temporarily and change the position of the fuselage whilst in flight.
Tesla has unveiled a car that can drive uphill on its wheels
Another unusual technology is the active downforce system. It uses powerful fans to create an area of reduced pressure beneath the car. This enables the Roadster to increase its grip on the road without relying solely on aerodynamic downforce, which increases with speed.
During the presentation, the car was shown driving upside down along a special ramp.
Tesla also claims that the system is capable of keeping the car stable on an inverted surface, even when stationary. However, the feasibility of using this technology under normal road conditions still needs to be independently verified.
When will the Tesla Roadster go on sale, and how much will it cost?
Elon Musk has announced that the company plans to start production of the new Roadster in 2028. Tesla has now resumed taking pre-orders.
To reserve the Performance version, a deposit of $50,000 is required. A deposit of $250,000 is required for the Thrust version, whilst the Rocket is available by invitation only. The company has not yet announced the final prices of the cars.
It is worth noting that the second-generation Roadster was first announced back in 2017. Since then, Tesla has repeatedly postponed the start of production. The new presentation was also held later than originally scheduled — it was postponed from 1 to 15 October 2026 due to adverse weather conditions.
Despite the technologies on display, questions remain regarding certification, safety, the practicality of gas-powered accelerators and the final cost of the Roadster ahead of the production model’s launch.
