Tesla Reveals Three Roadster Configurations, Including Flying Variant
Rocket version claims 0-60 mph in under 0.59 seconds but is not approved for public road use.
Tesla unveiled the next-generation Roadster on Thursday night with three distinct configurations, including a variant capable of flight. The event, held near SpaceX’s McGregor site in Texas, featured a demonstration where the car utilized cold gas thrusters to flip and land, marking a significant departure from traditional electric vehicle reveals.
What Happened
The new Roadster lineup consists of the Performance, Thrust, and Rocket versions. The Performance model seats two and achieves 0 to 60 mph in under 1.6 seconds. The Thrust version, also seating two, adds rear-mounted cold gas thrusters to reach 0 to 60 mph in under 0.9 seconds. The top-tier Rocket configuration seats one, uses perimeter-mounted thrusters for forward, upward, and lateral movement, and claims a 0 to 60 mph time of under 0.59 seconds. Tesla stated the car uses a multi-mode suction system and active aerodynamics, with the thrusters generating 4 to 5 times the force tires can provide.
Why It Matters
This launch highlights a deepening collaboration between Tesla and SpaceX engineers, with CEO Elon Musk describing the result as "better than any James Bond car." The vehicle incorporates aerospace-inspired materials like magnesium, titanium, and carbon fiber, along with gold-tinted glass modeled on spacesuit visors. However, Tesla explicitly notes that the car is not approved for public road use, and the Rocket variant is not available in all regions. Musk acknowledged that the vehicle is a "halo product" and warned that buyers prioritizing safety should not purchase it.
The Bottom Line
Tesla has reopened $50,000 reservations for the Roadster, with production planned for Giga Texas in 2027 or 2028. Pricing remains unannounced, and availability is tiered: Performance is by reservation, Thrust is a limited release, and Rocket is invite-only.
