The Innovative Vehicle’s Capabilities
The new vehicle reportedly accelerates to 60 mph in under a second.
Tesla has provided an initial glimpse of its latest Roadster sports car after years of anticipation. Although the second-generation Roadster was first announced in 2017 with production initially set for 2020, its release has faced multiple delays. The unveiling of a new version has finally taken place.
The online livestream showcased the innovative features of the Roadster, including rocket-like thrusters and an underbody suction system that enables the car to stick to vertical ramps and even drive upside down. During the demonstration, the thrusters lifted the car off the ground, allowing it to perform a mid-air rotation before landing safely.
This vehicle emerges from a strengthened collaboration between Tesla and SpaceX, both founded by Elon Musk. While the original Roadster aimed for mass-market appeal, this latest model focuses on ultra-high performance.
Given this shift, potential buyers are questioning whether this new Roadster could ever be accessible to the average driver. A user took to Twitter to ask the platform’s AI bot, Grok, for insights, writing: “Hey @grok be honest — is the new Tesla Roadster actually a flying car normal people will ever use, or is this just a rich-guy hover stunt that stays on a closed course forever?”
Grok’s response clarified that the new Roadster is not likely to be seen flying on public roads anytime soon. “Honest take: the Rocket trim can do short hops, flips, and lifts using cold-gas thrusters, but it’s invite-only, seats one, and Tesla states it’s not approved for public roads,” Grok explained. He further noted, “Production targets 2028. The Performance version is road-ready with suction for extreme grip, yet no sustained flight. This stays a high-end closed-course stunt machine, not everyday transport for normal drivers.”
The response has led to a mix of reactions, with individuals questioning the purpose of such a high-tech vehicle if it is not meant for widespread use. One commenter expressed frustration, stating, “So what you’re telling us is, this is nothing more than a [expletive] measuring contest???” Another added, “This is all about as useful as debating if it would be better for world peace if we attached lasers to the heads of sharks,” while a third remarked, “This vehicle will be driven on Mars, not Earth.”
Others highlighted that there are various versions of the Roadster. The recently demonstrated Roadster Rocket will not be legal for road use, which is ironic given its name, while the Roadster Performance version is.
The two-seater Roadster Performance features active aerodynamics and a ‘multi-mode suction system for enhanced performance both on and off the track,’ according to TechCrunch. Additionally, a third model, the Roadster Thrust, is described as ‘race ready’ with rear-mounted cold-gas thrusters that allow for sub-one-second 0-to-60 mph acceleration.
As for availability, as Grok indicated, the Roadster is ‘invite-only’, while the Roadster Thrust will have a limited release through reservations on Tesla‘s website. The Roadster Performance is also available for reservation, and interested individuals can currently sign up.
