Elon Musk unveils Tesla Roadster 2 prototype that can fly like a rocket
The demonstration featured aerial manoeuvres, jumps and a high-speed acceleration test.
Tesla Demonstrates Flying Car Technology
Musk presented the prototype at SpaceX’s rocket development and testing facility in Texas. He said the vehicle uses technology inspired by SpaceX and has thrusters that allow it to perform unusual movements.
A video of the demonstration showed the car climbing a curved ramp and travelling upside down with the help of suction. It then used thrusters to flip, fly and land, while another demonstration showed it leaping over a row of Tesla vehicles.
Musk Makes Bold Claims About Performance
Musk said the vehicle has altitude controls and rear thrusters that allow it to perform rolls and other aerial manoeuvres. He also claimed it could accelerate from zero to 60 miles per hour in less than one second.
“Flying cars are real. It’s got altitude controls, thrusters and main thrusters in the rear. So it can basically fly like a rocket, it can do rolls, crazy gymnastics.”
He said the prototype was controlled remotely during the demonstration “to make sure we don’t kill anyone”. Musk also acknowledged possible legal restrictions, saying, “I’m not sure it’s necessarily legal in all jurisdictions,” and described the prototype as “not necessarily a safety optimised car but it takes the fun meter to 11”.
Tesla Roadster 2 Production and Expected Price
The Roadster 2 was announced several years ago, with production planned for 2028 and a price expected to exceed $200,000. Musk previously described the electric sports car as a vehicle designed to outperform petrol-powered cars.
Musk had expressed doubts about flying cars in 2014, but later announced plans for the Roadster 2. The latest demonstration suggests the project has moved towards showcasing rocket-like features, although the claims still require independent verification.
Deposits and Flying Restrictions
Tesla’s reservation website lists a £50,000 deposit for the performance version and a $250,000 deposit for the thrust version. A single-seat rocket version featuring a full flight system is listed as available by invitation only.
Tesla has also stated that the flying vehicle is not permitted on public roads. The demonstration does not, by itself, establish that the prototype is ready for regular use or that its flying features have received regulatory approval.
The Tesla flying car demonstration highlights Musk’s ambition to combine electric vehicles with rocket technology. However, the vehicle’s real-world safety, flight performance and legal status remain important questions.
The planned 2028 production timeline and large deposits suggest that the project is aimed at a limited market initially. Buyers should wait for verified performance details, safety approvals and clear delivery information before making financial commitments.
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