Tesla showcases Roadster prototype with airborne thruster demo

Tesla demonstrated a new Roadster at SpaceX’s McGregor, Texas test site, driving it up a curved ramp, inverting it and launching it skyward with cold‑gas thrusters before it landed upright. The company presented three versions – Performance, Thrust and an invite‑only Rocket – and said customers can reserve the model for up to $250,000, though the reservation amount is described as provisional and final pricing and delivery timing remain to be confirmed.

The Roadster’s flight mode is not approved for public road use, and the company has not guaranteed that the vehicle will be delivered. Reactions range from awe at the engineering spectacle to skepticism about its immediate commercial viability and regulatory hurdles. Production is slated to begin next year with a target for 2028 delivery.