Tesla has unveiled its long-awaited next-generation Roadster, an electric sports car featuring rocket-style thrusters developed in collaboration with SpaceX, in a demonstration that has renewed debate about the future of flying cars.

The vehicle was showcased on October 15 at a SpaceX testing facility in Texas, where it performed aerial manoeuvres, including lifting off the ground, rotating in mid-air and landing back on its wheels.

The demonstration was attended by enthusiasts and investors and livestreamed online, attracting attention for its unconventional approach to electric vehicle performance.

According to reports by Reuters and other automotive publications, the Roadster uses high-pressure gas thrusters alongside a specialised fan-based system that allows it to perform manoeuvres beyond those of conventional road cars.

How Tesla's Flying Roadster Works

Unlike conventional flying cars designed with wings or multiple propellers, Tesla's demonstration vehicle uses rocket-style propulsion technology to lift the car briefly off the ground.

The system was developed in collaboration with SpaceX, the aerospace company founded by Tesla Chief Executive Elon Musk.

During the demonstration, the vehicle drove along an inverted ramp using a suction-based system before launching into the air and rotating before landing.

Tesla also demonstrated the vehicle jumping over other cars, highlighting the experimental technology behind the project.

However, the demonstration does not establish that the vehicle can operate as a conventional aircraft or safely fly over long distances.

Impressive Speed and Performance Claims

Tesla says the new Roadster can accelerate from zero to 60 miles per hour in less than one second, equivalent to approximately 97 kilometres per hour.

The company has also indicated that the vehicle could achieve a top speed exceeding 370 kilometres per hour and travel more than 480 kilometres on a single charge.

These figures position the Roadster as a high-performance electric sports car, although the claimed performance will need to be assessed against production specifications and independent testing.

The vehicle's development has faced repeated delays since Tesla first introduced the next-generation Roadster concept in 2017.

Production Expected in 2028

Despite the dramatic unveiling, the vehicle is not yet available for general customer use.

Tesla has indicated that production is expected to begin in 2028, although the company has a history of postponing the Roadster's planned release.

The latest demonstration also leaves important questions about its operating limitations, road legality, aviation regulations and the safety of its propulsion system.

The company has not established that the flying capabilities demonstrated will be available for unrestricted use on public roads.

Are Flying Cars Becoming a Reality?

Tesla's announcement adds to growing interest in vehicles that combine road transportation with aircraft technology.

Several companies worldwide are developing electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft, commonly known as eVTOLs, designed to transport people without conventional runways.

However, Tesla's Roadster differs from these aircraft because it remains primarily an electric sports car, with its flight-related capabilities demonstrated through specialised propulsion technology.

Whether the system can be adapted into a practical and commercially viable transportation solution remains uncertain.

For now, the Roadster represents an ambitious experiment in electric vehicle engineering rather than proof that flying cars are ready for everyday travel.