Tesla Roadster Flying Car Demo: Elon Musk Says ‘Turns Out the Future Does Have Flying Cars’
Elon Musk unveiled the next-gen Tesla Roadster with SpaceX-derived thrusters, calling it proof that 'the future does have flying cars'. Tesla now targets 2028 for production.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk has shown off the long-delayed next-generation Tesla Roadster performing aerial stunts using SpaceX-derived thruster technology, and the billionaire summed it up with a one-line post on social media. Sharing footage of the livestreamed demonstration, Musk wrote, "Turns out the future does have flying cars." The event took place at SpaceX's facility in McGregor, Texas, and Tesla confirmed that commercial production of the car is now targeted for 2028, with pricing and regulatory approvals still pending.
In the clips, the prototype is seen racing up a curved ramp, rotating upside down and landing safely after an aerial flip that Tesla Vice President of Vehicle Engineering Lars Moravy called a "kick flip". A second test showed the car lifting off from a standstill and clearing a line of parked cars.
Tesla Roadster Flying Car Demo
Turns out the future does have flying cars https://t.co/6fexPp6SXI
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) October 16, 2026
How The Roadster's Thruster System Works
The car uses an array of cold-gas, compressed-air attitude thrusters along with a fan-assisted suction system, developed with SpaceX engineers. Musk explained that the layout is meant to give rocket-like omnidirectional control, allowing hovering, rapid roll maneuvers and extreme acceleration. According to Tesla, the setup lets the Roadster go from 0 to 60 mph in about 0.81 seconds. Tesla Unveils Production-Intent Roadster As Elon Musk Targets 2028 Manufacturing Start.
Thrust And Rocket Variants Planned
Tesla indicated it plans two configurations. The "Thrust" model will be street-oriented, while the "Rocket" package will carry the full aerial maneuvering hardware. The prototype in Texas was built for extreme performance demonstrations, not everyday commuting.
Road-Legality Hurdles Remain
Musk admitted that the flight-capable variant is not currently certified for public roads. He added that it may not meet local vehicle safety regulations in every global jurisdiction. Final consumer specifications, pricing and delivery schedules are yet to be announced. Elon Musk Reveals Reason Why Tesla Roadster Demonstration Was Delayed; Know What He Said.
A Roadster Years In The Making
The second-generation Roadster was first unveiled as a concept in late 2017, with an initial launch target of 2020. The project has seen repeated delays as Tesla focused on high-volume vehicles like the Model Y and on launches such as the Cybertruck and Semi. The latest demonstration is the newest chapter in that long development cycle, with initial production now projected for 2028.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 16, 2026 03:15 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
