Tesla showed a new Roadster concept that during the demonstration performed a flip in the air and landed in a controlled manner thanks to gas thrusters. The company also claimed acceleration to 97 km/h in 0.81 s. Serial production is planned only for 2028.
Tesla Roadster received SpaceX technologies for flight
Under the floor of the Tesla Roadster are installed fans capable of creating downforce up to 2G even when stationary. Another ten gas thrusters allow the car to maneuver in the air. The system was developed in collaboration with SpaceX.
The gas thrusters use ultra-high-pressure air from two tanks of 600 L each. According to Elon Musk, the system runs on ordinary atmospheric air and can replenish its supply during operation.
It was this technology that helped the prototype accelerate to 97 km/h in the claimed 0.81 s. The car shown remains a concept for now, and Tesla has not disclosed the specifications of the production version.
The new Tesla electric car will be offered in three versions
The Roadster is equipped with steering, brakes and accelerator without a mechanical connection. The active rear spoiler automatically changes downforce depending on the driving mode.
Tesla announced three versions: Performance, Thrust and Rocket. For Performance, a $50,000 deposit is required, and Thrust, capable of accelerating to 97 km/h in less than a second, will cost $250,000. The single-seat Roadster Rocket with flight capability will be available only by invitation.
The company has not yet named the power, range, battery capacity, number of electric motors or the production location of the Roadster. The start of production is planned for 2028.
