Tesla demonstrates redesigned Roadster with compressed-air thrusters, targets 2028 production
Tesla demonstrated a redesigned version of its long-delayed Roadster on October 15 at SpaceX’s rocket-testing facility in McGregor, Texas, and said production is planned for 2028.
During the presentation, a prototype traveled upside down on a curved ramp using a suction system, then launched into the air, rotated and landed on its wheels with help from compressed-air thrusters. It also used the thrusters to jump over a row of Tesla vehicles. The demonstrations showed brief aerial maneuvers rather than sustained flight.
Tesla described three planned versions. The road-ready Performance model would use active aerodynamics and a fan-driven suction system. The Thrust model would add rear-mounted cold-gas thrusters, while an invitation-only, single-seat Rocket version would use 10 thrusters and be capable of briefly leaving the ground. Tesla says the Rocket version is not approved for …