Tesla demonstrates thruster-equipped Roadster, targets 2028 production
Tesla demonstrated a redesigned, thruster-equipped Roadster at SpaceX’s facility in McGregor, Texas, on Oct. 15, showing the prototype driving upside down on a curved ramp, rotating in midair and jumping over a row of Tesla vehicles.
The car uses a fan-driven ground-sealing system to create downforce and compressed-air thrusters developed with SpaceX. Tesla engineering vice president Lars Moravy said the system carries about 600 liters of rechargeable compressed air. The most capable “Rocket” version has 10 thrusters and is intended for brief aerial maneuvers rather than sustained flight; Tesla has not disclosed how high, far or long it can remain airborne. The company says that version is not approved for public-road use.
The Federal Aviation Administration told CBS News and Politico that the vehicle does not meet its definition of an aircraft and therefore would not require FAA …