Tesla Unveils Redesigned Roadster Featuring SpaceX Thrusters
Tesla has unveiled a redesigned version of its second-generation Roadster equipped with SpaceX thrusters during a demonstration event outside Waco, Texas. Tesla Chief Executive Officer Elon Musk described the vehicle as "the best of the last of the human-driven cars" and stated that production is now targeted for 2028. The company did not announce pricing details for the vehicle.
During the live demonstration, the stark white vehicle used a combination of high-powered fans and thrusters to travel up an inverted ramp, rotate in mid-air, and land back on the pavement. While in motion, the car also utilized its thrusters to lift itself above several other Tesla models, including a Cybercab, Cybertruck, Tesla Semi, Model Y, and Model 3. Tesla reported that the car is capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 miles per hour in one second.
Engineering and Technical Specifications
Addressing technical details at the event, Tesla Vice President of Engineering Lars Moravy explained that the Roadster operates using 10 nozzles linked to a 600-liter compressed air system to lift and maneuver the vehicle mid-air. Moravy noted that the compressed air tank can be recharged. In a subsequent post on X, Tesla stated that every available space inside the vehicle is fitted with Carbon Fiber Overwrapped Pressure Vessels.
The updated Roadster features a more angular exterior design compared to its previous iteration. Tesla stated on social media that the design language was inspired by the SR-71 and F-35 fighter aircraft, as well as evolving stylistic elements from Tesla's Cybertruck, Cybercab, and Optimus projects. Visual elements of the vehicle also draw comparisons to a Lamborghini and the Lotus Esprit featured in the film The Spy Who Loved Me, an example of which is owned by Musk and was displayed at the event site.
Production Timeline and Background
Tesla first revealed the second-generation Roadster nine years ago as an unexpected addition to its 2017 Tesla Semi unveil event. At the time, Tesla collected $50,000 reservation deposits from customers, alongside $250,000 reservations for a limited run of 1,000 "Founders Series" units. Musk initially raised the concept of integrating small SpaceX rocket thrusters into the vehicle in 2018 to enhance cornering, braking, top speed, and acceleration.
The Roadster project faced multiple delays following its initial presentation. Production timelines were pushed back in 2020, 2021, 2023, and 2024 as Tesla prioritized the manufacturing ramp of the Model 3, the Model Y SUV, and the Cybertruck. Additional target dates set for late 2025 and April 2026 were also rescheduled, including an October 1 event that was postponed due to severe weather conditions.
Project Outlook and Performance Expectations
Speaking on the vehicle's development, Musk described the project as a collaborative effort between Tesla and SpaceX engineers, adding that Tesla may attempt to use the Roadster to jump the Snake River Canyon, a site made famous by Evel Knievel's historical attempt in a steam-powered rocket.
Musk acknowledged that the Roadster is positioned as a specialized halo vehicle rather than a primary driver of financial performance, noting that safety is not its primary focus. Musk stated that the company would "aspire not to kill anyone in this car," comparing its niche appeal to high-performance sports cars from makers like Ferrari. Following the demonstration, YouTuber Marques Brownlee publicly expressed skepticism regarding the vehicle's weight, performance claims, and 2028 delivery schedule.
