Tesla has demonstrated its next-generation Flying Roadster in a spectacular event in Waco, Texas, showcasing an electric supercar capable of driving upside down, briefly flying through the air, and accelerating from zero to 60mph in less than a second.
The demonstration delivered on Elon Musk’s long-standing promise of a flying car, although questions remain about the vehicle’s practicality, safety, and eventual production. The event lasted less than 30 minutes and resembled a stunt show more than a conventional product launch, with no details announced about pricing or sales.
Musk said the Flying Roadster would enter production in 2028, nearly nine years after it was initially unveiled.
Vertical Driving and Rocket-Powered Stunts
The demonstration began with the Roadster climbing a towering, multi-storey ramp. A fan-based suction system mounted beneath the vehicle generated substantial downward force, allowing it to cling to the vertical surface. The system, supplied by SpaceX, is reportedly capable of producing up to two Gs of suction force.
At the top, the vehicle used cold-gas thrusters to manoeuvre and descend towards the ground.
The Roadster subsequently flew over Tesla’s vehicle lineup, including the Model 3, Model Y, Cybertruck, Semi, and Cybercab. During the manoeuvre, Tesla Vice President of Engineering Lars Moravy described the car’s movement as a “kick flip.”
Musk said the vehicle featured attitude-control thrusters and rear-mounted main thrusters, enabling it to perform aerial rolls and other elaborate manoeuvres.
“So it can basically fly like a rocket,” Musk said, describing the vehicle’s ability to perform what he called “crazy gymnastics.”
He also acknowledged that the Flying Roadster was not necessarily designed with safety as its primary consideration, emphasising its focus on delivering an extraordinary driving experience.
Compressed Air Powers the Performance
According to the demonstration’s technical details, the Flying Roadster carries two ultra-high-pressure air tanks with a combined capacity of 600 litres and approximately 250 kilograms of air. Ten nozzles direct the compressed air to generate thrust for lifting and manoeuvring the vehicle.
The system can reportedly recharge its tanks without requiring specialised chemical propellants.
Despite the extraordinary performance claims, significant questions remain about whether the technology can be adapted for practical road use. Tesla has yet to disclose the Flying Roadster price, final specifications, or confirmed release schedule, leaving its eventual commercial prospects uncertain.
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