Tesla Unveils New Product: Flying Electric Car Roadster

Tesla has unveiled a new generation of the Roadster electric vehicle, capable of performing aerial maneuvers. The presentation took place on October 15, 2026, at the SpaceX test site in Texas. During the demonstration, an unmanned prototype showcased its ability to drive upward on a curved ramp, perform a flip in the air, and land. The vehicle then jumped over several Tesla models, including the Cybertruck and the Semi truck. To execute the stunts, engineers used a combination of powerful fans and compressed air engines developed in collaboration with SpaceX. The fans create a vacuum under the chassis, pressing the car to the surface, while the engines allow the vehicle to lift off the ground and control its position in the air. Tesla's Vice President of Vehicle Development Lars Moravy noted that the system includes ten nozzles and two tanks with a total capacity of 600 liters, which hold about 250 kg of compressed air, and the supply can be replenished.

The presentation showcased an acceleration capability to 60 miles per hour (about 97 km/h) in less than a second. The claimed top speed exceeds 370 km/h, with a range of 480 km. Independent confirmation of these specifications is yet to be seen. The manufacturer introduced three Roadster modifications: Performance – a two-seater road version with active aerodynamics; Thrust – a two-seater variant with rear engines, and Rocket – a single-seater modification with ten nozzles designed for aerial maneuvers. To reserve the first two versions, deposits of $50,000 and $250,000 are required, respectively. The Rocket modification will be available by invitation only, with final prices yet to be disclosed.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk stated that mass production of the Roadster will begin in 2028. Although Tesla refers to the vehicle as flying, some experts express skepticism about this terminology. Roger Connor, curator of vertical flight at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, noted that it is more about jumping than full-fledged flight due to significant engineering constraints related to the vehicle's weight and design. The demonstration was conducted without a driver, which Musk explained as necessary to minimize risks when testing experimental technology. Tesla first introduced the second-generation Roadster in 2017, promising deliveries in 2020. Musk also stated that the Roadster would be equipped with compact SpaceX engines, but the release dates have been repeatedly postponed. The current presentation took place against the backdrop of the company's shift towards artificial intelligence, robotics, and autonomous transport, while the automotive business grows slowly. Musk acknowledged that he is unsure of the Roadster's significant impact on Tesla's revenue.