Tesla has revealed its redesigned second-generation Roadster, featuring cold-gas thrusters developed in collaboration with SpaceX. CEO Elon Musk showcased the vehicle at an event near Waco, Texas, demonstrating its ability to perform aerial maneuvers such as driving up an inverted ramp, spinning midair, and landing smoothly. The Roadster also used thrusters to clear other Tesla vehicles while in motion.
The car is designed to accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in under one second, with a top speed exceeding 230 mph and an estimated range of 300 miles across all trims. Tesla plans to offer three versions: Performance, which is road-ready and seats two; Thrust, race-ready with rear-mounted thrusters for sub-one-second acceleration; and Rocket, an air-ready single-seater equipped with ten cold-gas thrusters positioned around the vehicle.
Reservations opened with a $50,000 deposit for the Performance trim and $250,000 for the Thrust version, while the Rocket trim is available by invitation only. The thrusters operate using 600 liters of compressed air stored in carbon fiber overwrapped pressure vessels (COPVs), a technology also used in SpaceX rockets.
Engineering VP Lars Moravy explained that the thrusters enable the Roadster to lift and spin in midair, with the air tanks being rechargeable. Tesla’s design for the new Roadster draws inspiration from the SR-71 reconnaissance aircraft and the F-35 fighter jet, featuring a more angular look reminiscent of a Lamborghini and the Lotus Esprit from the James Bond film "The Spy Who Loved Me."
Musk described the Roadster as a halo vehicle for Tesla, emphasizing performance over safety and noting that it may not significantly impact Tesla’s revenue. He also hinted at ambitious stunts, including a potential jump over Snake River Canyon, echoing Evel Knievel’s famous attempt.
The Roadster’s development has faced multiple delays since its initial announcement in 2017, with production now expected to begin in 2028. Musk first proposed adding SpaceX thrusters in 2018, but the project was sidelined amid Tesla’s focus on other models like the Model 3, Model Y, and Cybertruck. Despite skepticism from some high-profile figures, Tesla’s latest demonstration highlights the Roadster’s unique combination of automotive and aerospace technologies.