Elon Musk unveiled a prototype of Tesla’s new Roadster featuring advanced flying capabilities during a livestreamed event on October 17, 2026. The vehicle, equipped with rocket-inspired thrusters, demonstrated the ability to lift off, hover at approximately 21 feet, perform a kick-flip maneuver, and land autonomously without a human driver on board. Musk emphasized the exclusion of a driver during the flight demonstration to avoid potential harm.
The updated Roadster incorporates a steer-by-wire system and boasts a claimed top speed of 230 mph, with the potential to surpass that figure. Musk suggested the car might reach speeds approaching Mach 0.5, or half the speed of sound, a claim met with lighthearted skepticism by members of Tesla's design team present at the event. The vehicle can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 0.81 seconds and has a battery range estimated at a minimum of 300 miles.
Tesla announced plans to commence production of the new Roadster in 2028. The base “performance” version requires a $50,000 deposit, while a more expensive “Thrust” model—equipped with acceleration thrusters—calls for a $250,000 deposit. Musk indicated that the car is intended for road use but acknowledged potential legal and regulatory hurdles. When questioned about road legality, he noted that it may not be approved in all jurisdictions but expects it to be viable on certain streets.
The flying capability raises questions about regulatory oversight. Industry experts suggest that the car’s ability to leave the ground could subject it to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations, which govern any vehicles entering national airspace. According to former FAA official Michael McCormick and aviation lecturer Scott Miller, operating such a vehicle may require drivers to obtain pilot licenses in addition to standard driving credentials.
This latest Roadster marks a significant advancement following Tesla's original Roadster, introduced 18 years ago as the company’s first electric vehicle. Tesla is currently shifting its focus toward artificial intelligence-driven technologies, including self-driving systems and robotics, amid discontinuing sales of its Model S and X vehicles. Tesla is scheduled to release its third-quarter 2026 financial results on October 21.