{
  "id": 15015223,
  "title": "Who would oversee a flying car? We asked the DOT.",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/16/who-would-oversee-a-flying-car-we-asked-the-dot",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-10-16T18:29:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "CBS News",
    "slug": "cbs-news",
    "url": "https://www.cbsnews.com/news/tesla-roadster-dot-flying-car/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Department of Transportation (DOT) officials were asked about the oversight of a flying car, but the answer is not immediately clear. Tesla CEO Elon Musk introduced Tesla's new Roadster Rocket at a press conference, describing it as a \"flying car\" that combines the best of both car and rocket companies. The car is expected to enter production in 2028, though it is currently about a decade behind schedule. The DOT website notes that the flying model is not approved for public road use, but there is a non-flying version available for purchase with a $5,000 deposit. However, Tesla's website states that the Rocket model with the full flight system will only be offered by invitation. The senior DOT official expressed skepticism about the vehicle's ability to take off, but acknowledged that there is currently no clear answer on who will determine its safety. Typically, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has regulatory oversight of vehicles, but it delegates safety certification to the automaker. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulates aircraft. However, the FAA stated that the Tesla vehicle does not meet the FAA definition of an aircraft. It is unclear which agencies Tesla is working with on the project, and CBS News has reached out to Tesla for more information.",
  "summary": "Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk unveiled Tesla's new Roadster Rocket, which he called a \"flying car\" equipped with \"ultra high-pressure air tanks.\"",
  "key_points": [
    "DOT officials asked about flying car oversight, answer unclear",
    "Tesla's Roadster Rocket expected in 2028, 10 years behind schedule",
    "FAA states Tesla vehicle doesn't meet aircraft definition"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}