Tesla Chief Executive Officer, Elon Musk, has unveiled a new version of the company’s Roadster electric sports car equipped with thrusters capable of lifting it into the air for brief manoeuvres.
The vehicle was demonstrated on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at a SpaceX testing facility in Texas, United States, during a livestreamed event.
During the demonstration, the Roadster performed aerial stunts, including jumping over other vehicles, flipping in mid-air and landing on its wheels.
Musk described the development as a collaboration between Tesla and SpaceX, using technology designed to give the vehicle capabilities beyond those of a conventional sports car.
He said the vehicle uses ultra-high-pressure air tanks and thrusters to generate the force needed for its airborne movements.
He acknowledged that the project’s success was not guaranteed, indicating that technical challenges remain despite the demonstration.
Tesla plans to begin production of the new Roadster in 2028, according to Musk.
However, the demonstration showed brief airborne manoeuvres rather than sustained flight, and questions remain about the vehicle’s safety, regulatory approval and practical use on public roads.
