Tesla demonstrates remotely controlled Roadster leaping with thrusters in Texas
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New footage shows Tesla’s remotely controlled Roadster 2 prototype using SpaceX thrusters to flip, fly and land during a Texas demonstration. Elon Musk called it the “world’s first flying car”, though the demonstration does not establish that it is suitable or legal for public use.
The car drove up a curved ramp, then used thrusters to perform stunts and leap over other Teslas; Musk also claimed it could accelerate from 0 to 60mph in under a second. Production is planned for 2028, with prices above $200,000. Tesla’s reservation site lists deposits of £50,000 for a performance version and $250,000 for a thrust version, while a one-seat model with a full flight system is invitation-only.
- New footage shows the Roadster 2 prototype performing thruster-powered stunts.
- Musk claims it can fly and reach 60mph in under a second.
- Production is planned for 2028, but public-road flight is prohibited.
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Tesla is the electric car company founded by Elon Musk, who also leads SpaceX, a company that builds rockets. The Roadster is Tesla’s high-performance sports car; the version shown was a prototype fitted with rocket thrusters developed by SpaceX.
Rocket thrusters produce force by expelling gas, and can be used to push a vehicle in a particular direction. Stunts such as jumping or briefly lifting off do not make a car an aircraft: rules on where such a vehicle can operate depend on local laws and safety requirements.
The Roadster has been presented as a future product, with production planned for 2028 and prices above $200,000. Its proposed features and performance matter to buyers and regulators, while the prototype demonstration does not establish what the production car will be able to do.
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The case for
Supporters could see the prototype as an ambitious demonstration of engineering that may push the boundaries of electric vehicles and rocket technology. They may argue that spectacular tests can attract investment and interest in innovation, while a limited, high-priced model allows enthusiasts to choose whether its performance is worth the cost.
The case against
Critics could argue that calling it a flying car risks overstating what was shown: the demonstration was remotely controlled, involved brief stunts, and the vehicle cannot be flown on public roads. They may also question the value of promoting extreme performance and costly reservations before production, especially when legality and practical use remain uncertain.
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Originally published by The Guardian as “Elon Musk reveals ‘world’s first flying car’ at Tesla event”.