Elon Musk Unveils Tesla Roadster “Flying Car” With Thrusters That Can Lift It Off the Ground

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Tesla Roadster Flying Car
Last Updated: October 17, 2026 at 08:11 pm

Tesla’s next generation Roadster, after years of anticipation, has finally been announced by Elon Musk with a display of technology that will enable the electric sports car to briefly detach from the ground. On October 15, 2026, the Tesla Roadster Flying Car was unveiled at a SpaceX facility in Texas with impressive acceleration figures, compressed-air thruster technology and aerial manoeuvre. 

Tesla Roadster Flying Car Makes Spectacular Debut in Texas

On the broadcast of the demonstration, the new Roadster went up a curved ramp, ran upside down and flopped through the air before safely landing. It even leapt over several Tesla cars, powered by its propulsion system. The demonstration involved high-powered fans and thrusters which were the product of Tesla’s partnership with SpaceX, TechCrunch reports. 

How SpaceX Thrusters Allow the Tesla Roadster to Fly

The Roadster has high-pressure compressed-air thrusters instead of traditional rocket propellants to produce thrust. It also has a suction system to help it grip during extreme manoeuvres. The technology had the ability to “rocket” around as described by Euronews, but the videos indicated that the technology would not be capable of sustained flight. 

Tesla Roadster Speed, Performance and Production Timeline

The prototype boasted a claimed acceleration from the stand of about 0.81 seconds to 60 mph, making it one of the most ambitious performance concepts ever seen. Musk also stated that it would start manufacturing in 2028. But the Roadster has been delayed several times since first being revealed in 2017, and the car’s final retail price and consumer options are still not clear. 

Flying Car Safety Concerns and Public Road Regulations

Even though the show was spectacular, questions remain about passenger safety, the legality of the road and practical application. The demonstration was conducted with a remote, and not with a human driver, for its aerial stunts. But experts have wondered what constitutes true flight? It will be a long time before it can be used by consumers, as it must be tested independently and approved by regulators.

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