Tesla unveils revamped Roadster that can briefly fly using SpaceX cold‑gas thrusters

Tesla unveiled a heavily redesigned second‑generation Roadster that can perform brief airborne manoeuvres using SpaceX‑derived cold‑gas thrusters. The demonstration took place at SpaceX’s test site in Texas and was streamed live, showing inverted driving, a controlled flip and a barrel roll. The new Roadster comes in three versions: the two‑seat Performance model for road use, featuring active aerodynamics and a multi‑mode suction system with a claimed 0‑60 mph time under 1.6 seconds; the two‑seat Thrust model aimed at track use, adding rear‑mounted cold‑gas thrusters and a 0‑60 mph claim under 0.9 seconds; and the single‑seat Rocket model, which Tesla says can fly using perimeter‑mounted thrusters, accelerates to 0‑60 mph in under 0.59 seconds and can exceed 230 mph top speed. All versions share a carbon‑fibre‑overwrapped pressure vessel that stores compressed gas, and the thruster system is said to generate four to five times the force of the tyres alone. Tesla also listed a driving range of more than 300 miles (483 km), though it did not specify the test cycle. The angular bodywork, concealed headlights and full‑width rear light draw design cues from the SR‑71 and F‑35 aircraft. Tesla promised a production‑spec version of the Roadster by 2028.

Context

Cold‑gas thrusters provide short, high‑force bursts of thrust and are commonly used in spacecraft for precise maneuvers. By adapting this technology, Tesla can boost acceleration without relying only on tyre grip. The Roadster follows a 2017 concept and signals Tesla’s push into ultra‑high‑performance electric sports cars.