The dream of flying cars has gained new momentum surrounding Tesla’s next-generation Roadster. In a recent demonstration, the electric sports car was shown using rocket-like thrusters to lift off the ground briefly before landing safely.
While this demonstration has sparked fresh discussion about the future of personal transport, many questions remain unanswered—specifically regarding the vehicle's true flight capabilities, its final price, and the licensing or safety regulations that would be required for its operation.
The demonstration took place on Thursday (October 15) at SpaceX’s testing facility in McGregor, Texas. It featured the Roadster ascending an inverted ramp and launching into the air—at one point, even leaping over another vehicle.
However, Tesla did not disclose precise measurements regarding the vehicle's flight altitude, horizontal distance, or the duration it spent in the air. While the demonstration proved the car could lift off the ground for a short period within a controlled environment, it did not demonstrate an ability to sustain flight for extended periods or cover significant distances through the air.
How high and for how long did the Tesla Roadster fly?
Tesla has not released any verified data concerning the Roadster’s flight altitude, horizontal distance, or time spent airborne. Reports on the event describe it as a brief aerial maneuver rather than a sustained flight.
One report noted that the vehicle reached a height of approximately 21 meters above the ground while on the ramp. However, as this measurement reflects the car's position while still on the ramp, it cannot be considered an accurate measure of its flight altitude once it had left the ground.
Ultimately, Tesla’s demonstration does not confirm whether the Roadster is capable of clearing major obstacles, remaining airborne for extended periods, or traveling significant distances without touching the ground. Special License and Insurance for Thruster Use?
Tesla has not yet announced any definitive regulations regarding licenses, training, or insurance for the use of the Roadster’s thrusters. These requirements will depend on how regulatory bodies classify the vehicle’s final design and its flight capabilities.
If the Roadster is approved for use on public roads, it might be operable with a standard driver’s license. However, operating the vehicle in a flight mode could trigger additional aviation-related regulations, depending on the country and the specific nature of the flight.
Insurance also presents potential complexities. Standard motor vehicle insurance might not cover accidents, damages, or injuries that occur while the vehicle is airborne. In such cases, insurance providers would need to assess the risks to determine appropriate coverage.
What Is the Price of the New Tesla Roadster?
Tesla has not yet confirmed the final retail price for the redesigned Roadster. When the second-generation Roadster was announced in 2017, the company set an initial price of $200,000; however, this figure cannot be considered the confirmed price for the new model.
The deposit amounts required for booking the new versions have also been discussed. Reports citing Tesla’s booking list indicate a deposit of $50,000 for the "Performance" version and $250,000 for the "Thrust" version.
The "Rocket" version—featuring more ambitious flight systems—is expected to be aimed at a very limited number of buyers and has been described as a single-seater. Its final retail price remains unconfirmed. Tesla’s website notes that this version is not approved for use on public roads.
Tesla has indicated a potential start date for production in 2028; however, this does not guarantee that deliveries will begin by that time.
Are Thrusters Practical for Daily Use?
Theoretically, yes. Thrusters generate force by expelling gas at high velocity. This technology can be used to produce a powerful burst of thrust for a short duration. However, making such a system practical and safe for everyday driving remains a major challenge.
The proposed system for the Roadster incorporates cold-gas thrusters developed with the involvement of SpaceX. Unlike conventional rocket engines, which generate power by burning rocket fuel, these thrusters create thrust by releasing gas stored under high pressure.
Could the Roadster serve as an alternative to conventional vehicles?
During demonstrations, the Roadster was shown lifting off the ground for a brief period before landing again. However, no practical framework has yet been established for sustained flight, specific operational range, or routine takeoff and landing procedures.
According to reports, this "rocket" version has not been approved for use on public roads. Its final regulatory status—and the specific conditions under which the flight system might be permitted for use—remain unanswered questions.
The mere ability of a vehicle to "leap" into the air does not qualify it as a functional "flying car" capable of serving as an alternative to conventional modes of transport.
For such a vehicle to become a viable alternative to traditional transport, its performance must be consistently proven through rigorous testing; it must feature reliable safety systems; its operational costs must be kept at a practical level; and it must comply with all relevant road and aviation regulations.