Tesla Unveils Cyberfied Next-Gen Roadster With Cold-Gas Thrusters
The new model features three trims, including an invite-only Rocket edition with 0-60 mph acceleration under 0.59 seconds.
Tesla has officially unveiled the next-generation Roadster, introducing a design overhaul inspired by the Cybertruck and SpaceX technology. The vehicle features cold-gas thrusters capable of aerial maneuvers, though pricing and specific production timelines remain unconfirmed.
What Happened
The reveal follows a livestream event that demonstrated the car’s ability to jump and flip using its thruster system. Tesla described the design as evolving from the previous S3XY lineup to align with the Cybertruck, Cybercab, and Optimus aesthetic, drawing inspiration from the SR-71 and F-35 aircraft. The exterior includes hidden headlights, a full-length taillight, and flush-mounted aero, while the interior features a yoke for steer-by-wire, a center touchscreen, and two smaller driver displays. To save weight, Tesla utilized magnesium, titanium, and carbon fiber, along with fixed seat positions and manual controls.
Three configurations were detailed in a post-event thread on X: the road-ready Performance trim, the race-ready Thrust, and the single-seat Rocket. The Performance model accelerates from 0-60 mph in under 1.6 seconds. The Thrust adds rear-mounted cold-gas thrusters for 0-60 mph times under 0.9 seconds. The Rocket, which is invite-only and not approved for public road use, features perimeter thrusters for upward and rotational movement, achieving 0-60 mph in under 0.59 seconds with a top speed exceeding 230 mph. Tesla stated that the thrusters generate four to five times the force the tires can handle, allowing the car to bypass traditional traction limits.
Why It Matters
The unveiling marks a significant shift in specifications from the original 2017 prototype. The new Roadster’s range is quoted at over 300 miles, a reduction from the previously promised 620 miles. Additionally, the seating capacity has decreased from a 2+2 layout to two seats at most, and the top speed claim has adjusted to over 230 mph for the Rocket trim, down from the earlier promise of above 250 mph. While acceleration figures have improved, particularly for the higher trims, the changes may impact early reservation holders who committed based on the original specs.
Tesla has reopened reservations, requiring a $5,000 refundable deposit immediately and an additional $45,000 within 10 days to maintain the reservation, totaling $50,000. However, the company has not provided a final purchase price for any of the three versions. The integration of SpaceX-derived technology, such as carbon-fiber overwrapped pressure vessels (COPVs) for compressed gas storage, highlights a deeper convergence between Tesla’s automotive and aerospace divisions.
The Bottom Line
Tesla’s next-gen Roadster features advanced thruster technology and a Cyber-inspired design, but critical details like final pricing and exact production dates remain pending. The vehicle’s specifications have notably changed from the 2017 prototype, with reduced range and seating capacity alongside improved acceleration metrics. The high-performance trims are limited in availability, with the Rocket edition restricted to invite-only customers and not certified for public road use.
