Elon Musk unveils Tesla Roadster prototype with rocket thrusters

Oct 16, 10:52 PM2 min readCovered by 4 outlets

Drafted by AI from the sources below, fact-checked by the Ajako Taja Editorial Team · How we use AI

AI Summary

Tesla's new Roadster prototype uses SpaceX thrusters to hover and spin in mid-air, but regulators are unsure if the vehicle counts as a car or a plane.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk has demonstrated a new version of the Roadster sports car in Texas, featuring air thrusters that allegedly allow the vehicle to fly and rotate in mid-air.

During a demonstration at a SpaceX facility, Musk showcased the vehicle driving up a curved ramp until it was upside down before launching off the end. According to CBS News, the car appeared to defy gravity while on the ramp, then performed a 180-degree mid-air roll to land on its wheels using air jets. Musk described the project as a collaboration between Tesla and SpaceX, utilizing ultra high-pressure air tanks to enable its flight capabilities.

The vehicle, which Musk referred to as a "flying car," is reportedly about a decade behind its original schedule. While a standard version can be reserved with a $5,000 deposit, Tesla’s website indicates that the "Rocket" model featuring the full flight system will be available by invitation only. Production for the car is currently projected to begin in 2028.

Government agencies have expressed uncertainty regarding how the vehicle would be regulated. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) told CBS News that the Roadster does not meet its definition of an aircraft, while a senior Department of Transportation official voiced skepticism about the car's ability to take off. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) stated it would monitor the situation, noting that Tesla must ensure the car meets federal safety standards even if it appears to defy physics.

Reactions to the reveal have been sharply divided. Feeds reported that some analysts view the SpaceX-integrated vehicle as a move toward a potential merger of Musk’s companies. Conversely, CleanTechnica criticized the demonstration as a stunt, calling the $200,000-plus vehicle an "irrelevant mind game" and a distraction from more pressing needs for affordable electric cars.

Background

The new Roadster model was developed as a joint effort between Tesla and SpaceX. Tesla has noted on its website that the flying version of the vehicle is not currently approved for use on public roads.