Tesla has showcased its redesigned Roadster electric sports car performing dramatic aerial stunts using rocket-inspired thrusters developed with SpaceX engineers.

The demonstration, held at a facility near Waco, Texas, on October 15, has renewed interest in the long-delayed vehicle, which is now expected to enter production in 2028. However, the prototype’s flying capabilities have not been confirmed for the final production model.

During the demonstration, the two-seat Roadster drove up a curved ramp, remained upside down briefly using a suction system and then launched into the air before landing on its wheels. The vehicle also demonstrated a jump over several Tesla models.

The car uses cold-gas thrusters, which release highly pressurised gas through nozzles to generate thrust. Unlike conventional rocket engines, these systems do not burn fuel to produce the thrust. SpaceX engineers helped develop the technology for the Roadster.

Tesla also presented a video showing the Roadster accelerating from zero to 60 miles per hour in just 0.81 seconds. The company has previously promoted ambitious performance targets for the vehicle, including high top speeds and an extended driving range.

However, the acceleration figure has not been independently verified, and it remains unclear whether all the features shown during the demonstration will be available in the commercial version.

The next-generation Roadster has faced repeated delays since Tesla first introduced its successor concept in 2017. The latest demonstration offers a glimpse of the company’s plans to combine electric vehicle engineering with technology inspired by SpaceX.

Tesla has yet to confirm all final production specifications, pricing and delivery timelines. The success of the Roadster will depend on whether the company can turn its ambitious performance claims into a practical, road-legal vehicle while meeting safety and regulatory requirements.

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