Tesla’s new Roadster can do a barrel roll, climb walls and hit 230mph
After nearly a decade of delays, Tesla has finally shown off its new Roadster, complete with rocket thrusters, a wild suction system and a claimed 0-60 mph time of under a second.
Tesla has unveiled its new Roadster after nearly a decade of delays at a presentation at SpaceX's Rocket Test and Development Center in McGregor, Texas. The event, led by Tesla chief designer Franz von Holzhausen, Vice President of Engineering Lars Moravy, and CEO Elon Musk, featured a demo of the vehicle's capabilities, including the ability to jump, flip in the air, and hit 230mph.
The Roadster's design, which includes an angular look inspired by the SR-71 aircraft and rocket ships, showcases a collaboration between Tesla and SpaceX. The car utilizes SpaceX-developed cold-gas thrusters that can deliver 80 kN of thrust for straight-line speed and provide up to 80 kN of upward lift, allowing the vehicle to "fly" briefly.
Additionally, a fan system beneath the car generates downforce, enabling the Roadster to drive up vertical roads, overhangs, and perform a "kick-flip" maneuver. The car will be available in three versions, with the highest-performance variant, called Rocket, featuring cold-gas thrusters for advanced maneuvers. Customers can reserve the Roadster for $5,000 and a subsequent $45,000 payment within 10 days.
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