Tesla’s "Flying" Roadster Stuns In Texas
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American car manufacturer Tesla unveiled its next-generation Roadster at a live event at a SpaceX test facility in McGregor, Texas, on October 15, 2026. To showcase the car's capabilities, the company put an uncrewed prototype through a series of dramatic stunts that looked straight out of a science-fiction movie.
In its first stunt, the car drove up a steep, curved ramp and stayed upside down briefly before reversing back down. On its second run, it drove up the ramp again and launched off the top. It then used its thrusters to flip upright in midair before landing on its wheels. Minutes later, the car leaped over a row of parked Tesla vehicles.
"Turns out the future does have flying cars," said Tesla CEO Elon Musk.
The technology behind the stunts
The Roadster prototype was specially equipped with two systems to perform these stunts. Powerful fans beneath the car created suction, holding it against the steep track even when it was upside down.
To become airborne, the car used high-pressure air tanks and small thrusters developed with SpaceX. The thrusters released air at high speed to push the car upward and helped control its movement in the air. This allowed the car to flip and land back on its wheels.
No "flying" cars yet
Exciting as the demonstration was, automotive experts say that drivers should not plan on leaping over traffic jams any time soon. The event was just a controlled test operated by remote control not a preview of an everyday car.
After the event, Tesla announced that standard, road-legal versions of the new Roadster are expected to enter production in 2028. As for the flight-capable Roadster, aptly called the Rocket, Tesla says it will be offered by invitation only. The company also notes that this version is not approved for public road use.
Resources: Tesla.com, CNN.com, Wired.com.
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124 Comments
- 1aubguess28 daysThis is amazing I believe it’s real no one will say different
emmaanna8 daysThey would have to add so many new laws!- emmaanna8 daysso cool
- zedohikytito8 daysthis is unbelievable!
tifififojyzo8 days"In 2026 we will have flying cars"
iloveaxolotls8 daysThat's so cool, Iwish that ICould so the stunt.- 716248 daysYou literally get dizzy it is not safe i'd probably throw up in that car
- rojilijanumo8 daysrocket police cars would be insane
- iloveaxolotls8 daysRight, imagine getting pulled over by one.
- behonunujefe9 daysThey should give it law enforcement first and then people need a license
calebh129 daysNice
