Skip to main content
CadNews - Comparative News Analysis
Topics
Sign in
Back to brief

Tech · October 17, 2026

A look at Elon Musk's "flying" Tesla Roadster

4 sources →

Elon Musk recently unveiled a prototype of the new Tesla Roadster during a demonstration at a SpaceX facility in Texas. The vehicle reportedly utilizes rocket thruster technology to perform aerial maneuvers, including jumps and flips. The Roadster is slated for production in 2028, over a decade after it was initially announced. While the event showcased the car's extreme performance capabilities—including a claimed 0-60 mph time of under one second—questions have been raised regarding the legality of using such thruster technology on public roads and Tesla's history of production delays.

Read the original coverage

Reported by multiple outlets

  • The demonstration took place at a SpaceX facility in Texas.
  • The new Roadster prototype uses SpaceX-derived rocket thruster technology.
  • The vehicle performed a jump or flip during the demonstration.
  • Elon Musk claims the car can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in less than one second.
  • Tesla has set a target production date of 2028.

Reported by only some outlets

  • The car used a curved ramp and suction to assist in the aerial demonstration.
  • A 'performance' version requires a £50,000 deposit, while a 'thrust' version requires $250,000.
  • A 'rocket' variant with a full flight system is invitation-only.
  • Tesla's 4680 battery cells are intended for use in the model.
  • The vehicle features four exhaust pipes for compressed nitrogen jets.

About these outlets

CadNews does not determine absolute truth or endorse political viewpoints. It compares publicly available reporting, identifies shared facts, highlights framing differences, and flags uncertainty.