US: Tesla has demonstrated a redesigned version of its Roadster electric sports car using SpaceX-developed thrusters to perform airborne manoeuvres, drawing attention to the company's long-delayed vehicle project.
Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, shared a video of the demonstration on X, writing, “Turns out the future does have flying cars.” The footage showed the vehicle rising above other cars using thrusters, briefly remaining airborne and landing safely.
The official Tesla account also posted a separate clip showing the Roadster driving up a large curved ramp, travelling upside down along the structure, launching into the air and landing on the ground. The demonstration took place at a SpaceX facility in McGregor, Texas.
The demonstration was conducted under controlled conditions. Tesla has not established whether the vehicle’s airborne capabilities will be approved for use on public roads.
Turns out the future does have flying cars https://t.co/6fexPp6SXI
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) October 16, 2026
SpaceX technology enables airborne manoeuvres
The redesigned Roadster features cold-gas thrusters developed by SpaceX, which use pressurised gas to generate thrust. Combined with specialised control systems, the technology is designed to enable airborne manoeuvres beyond the capabilities of conventional road vehicles.
Tesla also describes a multimode fan and ground-sealing system that draws air from beneath the vehicle to generate suction. According to the company, the system can hold the car upside down while stationary. Fans and active aerodynamic components are designed to improve traction and cornering performance.
The thruster system uses all-electric actuators that Tesla says can make rapid adjustments to help stabilise the vehicle during flight.
The demonstration also attracted reactions from technology industry executives. Google CEO Sundar Pichai commented on Musk’s post, writing, “The FSD [Full-Self Driving] version of this will be something:) congrats!”
Roadster is a true pilot’s car: active aerodynamics, a multi-mode suction system & cold-gas thrusters
Exterior
– Concealed headlights, full-length taillight & flush-mounted surfaces for a minimalist, highly technical form– Super light wheels w/ thin spokes that reinforce structural strength when earthbound
– Ano White paint brings an aerospace-derived finish w/ UV & cryogenic protection, electrostatic dissipation & corrosion resistance
– Gold Glazed tinted glass mimicking the copper coating of spacesuit visors, w/ subtle titanium accents
— Tesla (@Tesla) October 16, 2026
Tesla opens Roadster reservations in India
Tesla has opened reservations for the redesigned Roadster in India and other markets, with a refundable booking amount of Rs 5.01 lakh.
Customers reserving the vehicle are required to make an additional payment within 10 days, according to the reservation details. The Performance variant requires a further Rs 45.05 lakh, while the Thruster variant requires Rs 2.45 crore. Tesla has not confirmed the final prices of the vehicles.
Reservations for the Rocket variant are not currently open to the general public, with the model reserved for invited customers.
Tesla has outlined three configurations for the Roadster. The two-seat Performance variant includes active aerodynamic components and a multimode suction system. The two-seat Thruster variant adds acceleration thrusters to the Performance specifications. The single-seat Rocket variant is designed around a more extensive flight system, incorporating the Performance and Thruster features.
Do a kickflip! https://t.co/DJ1Bq1yu8m
— Tesla (@Tesla) October 16, 2026
Production timeline and design details
First announced in November 2017, the Roadster has faced repeated production delays. Tesla is now expected to begin production in 2028, although the company has yet to deliver the redesigned model to customers.
The vehicle features a minimalist exterior with concealed headlights, a full-width taillight, flush-mounted surfaces and thin-spoke wheels. Tesla has also detailed an Ano White finish, which it describes as offering ultraviolet and cryogenic protection, electrostatic dissipation and corrosion resistance.
The exterior design includes Gold Glazed tinted glass inspired by the copper coating used on spacesuit visors. Inside, the Roadster features an Ultrawhite interior with grey microsuede detailing, seat bolsters and manual controls.
Tesla has also specified lightweight materials, including magnesium, titanium and carbon fiber, alongside a fixed seat position.
