Roadster Event

Summary

At a Tesla–SpaceX event at SpaceX’s McGregor, Texas, test site, presenters introduced a new Roadster concept combining high-performance driving features with rocket-inspired systems. They described it as a collaboration between Tesla and SpaceX and as a demonstration of how far electric vehicles have advanced since the original Roadster.

Features and demonstrations

• Rocket-assisted flight: The car was shown performing brief airborne maneuvers, including a stunt the presenters called a “kick flip.” They said it uses rear thrusters and attitude-control thrusters adapted from SpaceX technology.
• Compressed-air system: The presenters described two carbon-fiber-overwrapped pressure vessels with a combined capacity of 600 liters, holding about 250 kilograms of air and feeding 10 nozzles. They said the system can recharge itself and does not require a special propellant.
• Fan-based downforce: A suction system beneath the car is intended to pull it toward the road, increasing traction and cornering performance. The presenters claimed it could generate more than 2 g of downforce and described high-downforce and low-drag configurations, with the fan system adjusting to driving conditions.
• Design and controls: The two-seat car has a lightweight, aerospace-inspired design, seats molded into the chassis, and steer-by-wire controls for the yoke, brakes, and throttle. A variable-pitch rear wing is intended to adjust downforce automatically.
• Acceleration and speed claims: The event showed a reported 0–60 mph time of 0.81 seconds in a limited-space demonstration. The presenters said a production version should be quicker, while noting that acceleration would be limited to avoid injuring occupants. They also claimed a top speed above 230 mph and discussed aiming higher.
• Caveats and plans: Elon Musk said the car was not necessarily optimized for safety, and the presenters noted that its legality could vary by jurisdiction. They described it as a manually driven car, despite using autonomy for the demonstration as a safety measure, and said production was expected to begin in 2028.

Main speakers and sources

The event was hosted by Fran and Lars, with Elon Musk discussing the vehicle and its capabilities. Engineering team members Andy and Lamar were also acknowledged.