Tesla Roadster Unveiled with Flying Capabilities, 0-60 in Under a Second

Tesla unveiled its redesigned Roadster prototype on October 15, 2026, at SpaceX's rocket testing facility in McGregor, Texas, showcasing dramatic demonstrations of its acceleration and what the company calls "flying" capabilities.

During the event, the sports car prototype accelerated up a large, curved ramp, appearing to climb upside down before being propelled into the air by compressed-gas thrusters. It then flipped and landed safely. The vehicle also flew over a line of other Tesla vehicles, including a Cybercab, Cybertruck, and Model Y. Tesla stated that the maneuvers were performed using automated controls to ensure safety.

Advanced Technology and Performance Claims

The Roadster's airborne demonstrations utilized technology developed in conjunction with SpaceX. A system of cold-gas thrusters, which release pressurized gas rather than burning fuel, provides thrust. Four electric fans near the rear of the car create suction to help maintain grip on surfaces, even when inverted. Tesla engineering executive Lars Moravy noted that the "Rocket" configuration of the Roadster includes up to 10 thrusters and requires a significant high-pressure gas storage system.

Tesla claims the Roadster can achieve 0-60 mph in an astounding 0.81 seconds with thruster assistance, a figure demonstrated during the event but yet to be independently verified on a production vehicle. The company also projects top speeds exceeding 230 mph for some configurations, with an aspirational goal of reaching half the speed of sound. The projected driving range is over 300 miles on a charge.

Three Configurations Planned

Tesla plans to offer the Roadster in three distinct configurations: Performance, Thrust, and Rocket.

The Performance version is designed for road use, seating two, and is claimed to reach 60 mph in under 1.6 seconds without thrusters. The Thrust configuration adds four rear-mounted cold-gas thrusters, aiming for 0-60 mph in under 0.9 seconds. This version is intended for racing and will have a limited release.

The most extreme is the Rocket version, featuring 10 thrusters for forward, upward, and airborne maneuvering. Tesla claims this configuration could accelerate from 0-60 mph in under 0.59 seconds. However, this version seats only one person, and its additional equipment requires a substantial refill time for its high-pressure gas system, currently estimated at six to seven hours. Tesla has explicitly stated this version is not approved for public road use.

Pricing and Delivery Uncertainty

When first announced in 2017, the Roadster was expected to start around $200,000. At the 2026 unveiling, Tesla did not provide a final purchase price but reopened reservations with significant upfront payments. The Performance version requires a $5,000 deposit followed by $45,000 within 10 days. The limited-release Thrust version requires the same initial deposit but an additional $245,000 within 10 days, totaling a $250,000 reservation payment.

Tesla has not disclosed pricing for the invitation-only Rocket configuration. Reservations secure a place in line, and buyers can receive a full refund until they complete their vehicle configuration. However, the company explicitly states that the Roadster is still under development and cannot guarantee when, or if, a vehicle will be delivered. The original target for deliveries was 2020, and Musk now suggests production could begin in 2028, though this remains a target.

A Shift in Focus?

Elon Musk suggested the Roadster might be among Tesla's last vehicles designed for human drivers, contrasting with the company's push towards autonomous driving, such as its Cybercab service. This marks a focus on driving engagement for the Roadster, featuring a steer-by-wire yoke and lightweight materials. The car's advanced traction systems and thruster technology, while impressive in demonstration, present challenges for widespread practical application and regulatory approval. Tesla advises potential reservation holders to review the terms carefully, acknowledging the prototype status of the unveiled vehicle and the uncertainties surrounding its eventual production and delivery.