How does Tesla’s Roadster fly? | Explained
Elon Musk said the car has altitude control thrusters and main thrusters in the rear and “can basically fly like a rocket and do rolls and crazy gymnastics”.
On Thursday, October 15, 2026, Tesla unveiled its new Roadster sports car at a SpaceX testing facility in McGregor, Texas. Elon Musk demonstrated the car's ability to perform aerial maneuvers and safely land using a system of thrusters and cold-air thrusters. The prototype showcased its ability to hover, perform rolls and flips, and land gently on wheels.
Elon Musk described the Roadster as a "flying car" that can "basically fly like a rocket and do rolls and crazy gymnastics". The car uses a combination of altitude control thrusters, main thrusters in the rear, and fan suction to achieve flight and rollover capabilities. However, Tesla cautioned that the Roadster is not yet safety-optimized and may not be legal in all jurisdictions.
The car's suction system generates downforce, allowing the vehicle to maintain traction and corner at high speeds. The Roadster prototype is expected to enter production in 2028, with three variants available - the Performance, Thrust, and Rocket models.
Written by urgent.news from The Hindu - Sci-Tech's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
