Tesla Shows the Next-Generation Roadster in Texas
Tesla unveiled its next-generation Roadster on the evening of October 15, 2026 (US time), at a SpaceX test site near Waco, Texas. Tesla says it co-developed the electric sports car with SpaceX. CEO Elon Musk said production is planned for 2028. Tesla has not announced a final price.
What the Demo Showed
At the event, an empty Roadster drove up a vertical, overhanging ramp upside down. It stayed on the ramp using fan suction of around 2 g. It then rotated in the air with cold-gas thrusters and jumped over a Model 3, a Model Y, a Cybertruck, a Semi and a Cybercab. Nobody was inside the car during the demo.
Three Versions and Reservation Deposits
- Performance: reservation deposit of $50,000.
- Thrust: limited edition, reservation deposit of $250,000. Tesla quotes 0–60 mph in under 1 second.
- Rocket: invite-only, single seat, with the full flight system. Tesla says this version is not street legal and is not available in all regions.
Tesla's Performance Claims
The following figures are Tesla's own claims and have not been independently tested:
- 0–60 mph in 0.81 seconds
- Top speed of more than 230 mph
- Range of more than 300 miles
- Body built from magnesium, titanium and carbon
- Steer-by-wire yoke instead of a round steering wheel
What It Means for US Buyers
US buyers can place a reservation, but deliveries are not expected before 2028, and the final purchase price is still open. The deposit amounts are far above typical EV reservation fees. Any flying use would need approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), according to WIRED. Until then, the flight features shown in Texas remain a demo, not a feature you can buy today.
Sources
Official details: Tesla Roadster page. Event coverage: The Verge, TechCrunch, WIRED and Reuters (via The Hindu).