Elon Musk Unveils Tesla 'Flying Car,' Sparks Skepticism Online

Elon Musk has unveiled a dramatic demonstration of what he described as a flying Tesla car, showcasing the capabilities of a new Roadster model at a launch event.

During the event at SpaceX's testing facility in McGregor, Texas, the Roadster was shown driving upside down on a ramp before launching into the air, flipping, and landing safely. In another demonstration, the vehicle appeared to hover after launching vertically from a stationary position.

"Flying cars are real... It's got altitude controls, thrusters and main thrusters in the rear. So it can basically fly like a rocket, it can do rolls, crazy gymnastics," Musk stated at the event.

However, the spectacle quickly drew skepticism on social media. Tech blogger Marques Brownlee questioned the demonstration, posting on X, "This is a prank, right?" He added, "They really just got on stage and said this newly designed 4000+ pound car can do flips and go half the speed of sound (380+mph) and will ship in 2028."

Other social media users expressed disbelief, with comments ranging from "Bro this does not look real no f**g way" to humorous concerns about insurance costs and the safety of passengers, with one user joking, "Car insurance companies are going to s themselves."

Musk acknowledged the potential legal and practical hurdles, noting, "I'm not sure it's necessarily legal in all jurisdictions, but there will be such a car that someone can own."

Despite the skepticism, some onlookers expressed amazement. Demis Hassabis, co-founder and chair of Google DeepMind, congratulated Musk, stating, "Huge congrats @elonmusk! Incredible work, Blade Runner cars here we come..." Google and Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai also commented, "The FSD [Full Self–Driving] version of this will be something:) congrats!"

Tesla's website indicates that the Roadster will feature advanced aerodynamics and a suction system. Reservations are open, with deposits for a performance model starting at $50,000. A 'thrust' augment is available for $250,000, and a 'rocket' augment, described as including a "full flight system," is available on an invite-only basis.

Musk previously teased a "SpaceX package" for the Roadster in 2018, which would incorporate cold-air thrusters. This marks a shift from his 2017 comments to Bloomberg, where he expressed skepticism about the feasibility and safety of flying cars, citing risks like falling debris. The company is targeting 2028 for production of the new sports car.