Tesla's flying Roadster promises 96 kmph in under a second, but there's a big catch

Flying fantasy

A car that can flip in mid-air, travel upside down and perform barrel rolls? Tesla's redesigned Roadster is making extraordinary promises nearly nine years after its original concept debuted in 2017. The company claims its new Rocket variant uses cold-gas thrusters to perform aerial manoeuvres. A reported demonstration showcased these capabilities, but the biggest question remains whether the technology will make it into a production car. (Images : Tesla)

Speed madness

Forget the usual electric car acceleration figures. Tesla claims its Roadster Rocket variant can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph, approximately 96.6 kmph, in under 0.59 seconds. The two-seat Thrust version reportedly achieves the same speed in under 0.9 seconds, while the road-focused Performance model promises under 1.6 seconds. These are company-reported figures, not independently verified production-car test results.

Rocket engineering

What gives Tesla's Roadster its unusual capabilities? The company says it has adapted SpaceX-inspired thruster technology, using compressed gas stored in carbon-fibre-wrapped vessels. Tesla claims the system can generate four to five times the force available from tyre grip alone. The Rocket variant features thrusters positioned around the vehicle to assist acceleration, lift and rotation, although their real-world performance remains unverified.

Range mystery

Tesla's futuristic Roadster isn't relying on aerial stunts alone. The company has mentioned a driving range exceeding 483 km and a claimed top speed above 370 kmph for the Rocket version. However, the range figure has not been linked to a specific variant or testing cycle. Tesla has also not disclosed confirmed battery capacity, motor output or powertrain specifications, leaving important questions unanswered for potential buyers.

Production gamble

The redesigned Roadster comes in three proposed versions: Performance, Thrust and Rocket. Tesla describes an ultrawhite cabin with grey microsuede detailing, lightweight materials and supportive seats. But despite the futuristic design and extraordinary performance claims, the vehicle remains a concept. Tesla is targeting production in 2028, meaning buyers may have to wait years to discover how much of this ambitious technology reaches the road.