Tesla unveils Roadster 2 prototype with rocket-style thrusters
Elon Musk demonstrated a Tesla Roadster 2 prototype that uses SpaceX-derived thrusters to lift, flip and land, while noting regulatory and safety considerations.
Tesla showcased a prototype of its upcoming Roadster 2 at SpaceX’s testing facility in Texas, demonstrating a vehicle that can ascend a curved ramp, flip upside down and land using rocket-style thrusters. The demonstration, recorded on video, showed the car using suction to grip the ramp before firing rear thrusters to perform a controlled flight and subsequent landing. The prototype also leapt over a line of existing Tesla models and accelerated to 60 mph in under a second.
"Flying cars are real. It’s got altitude controls, thrusters and main thrusters in the rear. So it can basically fly like a rocket, it can do rolls, crazy gymnastics," Musk said during the event.
"I’m not sure it’s necessarily legal in all jurisdictions," he added, acknowledging that the prototype is not yet optimized for safety.
Musk announced that the Roadster 2 is slated for production in 2028, with a base price above $200,000. Reservations for a two-seat performance version require a £50,000 deposit, while a higher-spec thrust version calls for a $250,000 deposit. A one-seat “rocket” variant with a full flight system is offered by invitation only and is not permitted on public roads.