Tesla chief executive Elon Musk has unveiled a redesigned Roadster sports car equipped with rocket-style thrusters that enable it to perform brief airborne manoeuvres, with production expected to begin in 2028.

Musk showcased the long-awaited electric sports car on October 15, 2026, at a SpaceX testing facility in McGregor, Texas, where the vehicle demonstrated a series of unusual manoeuvres, including driving upside down on a ramp, flipping in mid-air and landing back on its wheels.

The demonstration, which attracted attention across the technology and automotive industries, featured technology developed through collaboration between Tesla and SpaceX, Musk’s aerospace company.

According to Reuters, the vehicle uses cold-gas thrusters to propel itself into the air, while a suction system enables it to maintain contact with an inverted ramp during the demonstration.

Musk described the unveiling as a major engineering achievement, suggesting that the technology could redefine expectations for high-performance electric vehicles.

Roadster Promises Extreme Performance

During the presentation, Tesla executives said the new Roadster could accelerate from zero to 60 miles per hour in less than one second and reach a top speed exceeding 230 miles per hour.

The company also demonstrated the vehicle jumping over other cars, further highlighting the capabilities of its thruster-assisted system.

However, the demonstration involved brief airborne manoeuvres rather than sustained flight, meaning the vehicle has yet to demonstrate the capabilities commonly associated with a conventional aircraft.

Production Expected in 2028

Tesla said production of the redesigned Roadster is expected to begin in 2028, nearly nine years after the company first unveiled its second-generation model in 2017.

The project has faced repeated delays, with earlier delivery targets passing without the vehicle reaching customers.

Tesla is accepting reservations for different versions of the car, including a Performance model and a more advanced Thrust version. A Rocket variant featuring a full flight system is listed as available by invitation only.

The reported reservation deposits are $50,000 for the Performance version and $250,000 for the Thrust version. The company has not provided a definitive delivery schedule for customers.

Safety and Legal Questions Remain

Despite the excitement surrounding the demonstration, questions remain over the practicality, safety and regulatory approval of the thruster-equipped vehicle.

Tesla’s Rocket version is described as not approved for public-road use. The technology would also face substantial engineering and regulatory challenges before any broader application of airborne vehicles could become practical.

The demonstration therefore represents a technological showcase rather than proof that consumers will soon be able to drive flying cars on public roads.

For Tesla, the Roadster remains a high-profile demonstration of the company’s engineering ambitions as it increasingly invests in autonomous driving technology, artificial intelligence and robotics.