Electric vehicle manufacturer Tesla has unveiled a prototype of its next-generation Roadster sports car, featuring technology that allows it to perform brief airborne manoeuvres, with production targeted for 2028.
The vehicle was demonstrated on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at a SpaceX testing facility in Texas, United States, where it showcased several unusual capabilities, including jumping into the air, flipping mid-flight and driving upside down using a suction system.
Tesla Chief Executive Officer Elon Musk described the vehicle as a glimpse into the future of transportation, highlighting the company’s efforts to combine electric vehicle engineering with aerospace technology.
The Roadster was developed in collaboration with SpaceX, Musk’s aerospace company, and features a propulsion system comprising 10 nozzles and high-pressure air tanks designed to generate thrust for brief airborne movements.
During the demonstration, the vehicle reportedly accelerated from zero to 60 miles per hour in less than one second. Tesla also claimed that the sports car could reach a top speed exceeding 230 miles per hour and travel more than 300 miles on a single charge.
The demonstration vehicle was operated without a driver during the test, with Musk citing safety concerns as the reason for the decision.
Despite the impressive display, questions remain about the vehicle’s practicality, safety and regulatory approval. Aviation regulations and restrictions on flying vehicles could limit where and how the Roadster can operate.
Experts have also raised concerns about the technical challenges of developing a vehicle that can function safely as both a road car and an aircraft. The demonstration showed brief airborne manoeuvres rather than sustained flight over long distances.
Tesla has yet to establish a confirmed delivery schedule for customers, while the vehicle’s final pricing and the availability of its different versions remain important considerations for prospective buyers.
The unveiling comes as Tesla increasingly focuses on autonomous driving technology, artificial intelligence and robotics alongside its electric vehicle business.
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