Tesla's Next-Generation Roadster May Debut This Month: Supercar with SpaceX Cold Air Thrusters Capable of 'Flying' Set to be Unveiled

Tesla is preparing for the launch event of its next-generation Roadster, which could take place as early as this month at SpaceX's testing facility in McGregor, Texas. The car's ability to 'fly' comes from cold air thrusters developed in collaboration with SpaceX. Due to the significant noise generated by the thrusters, the demonstration vehicle will be remotely controlled and unoccupied, with all spectators required to stand hundreds of yards away.

Elon Musk has warned some employees, "This demonstration is going to be hard to execute perfectly and may have some errors, but it will be exciting nonetheless." It is still unclear whether the event will be live-streamed or if recorded footage will be released. Tesla's stock price has fallen nearly a quarter this year, while the Nasdaq index has risen 15%, with the new Roadster seen as a signal that Tesla remains a car manufacturer amid its strong focus on AI and robotics.

Since its first appearance in 2017, the delivery timeline for the new Roadster has been delayed at least eight times. Musk's demands for the project have continually escalated—from the fastest production car ever to something crazier than all Bond cars combined, ultimately stating, "This car must be able to fly." Starting in 2024, the team has been working closely with SpaceX's Starship propulsion team, but the definition of flying has evolved from that of an aircraft to something closer to hovering. The design initially paid homage to the Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird reconnaissance aircraft, with the project code-named "A-71," and the final design incorporates elements of the Lamborghini Countach style.

The limited edition is expected to be highly niche and may not comply with road regulations, with a price tag potentially reaching hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars. Some of the 2017 pre-order customers have publicly canceled their orders, including YouTuber Marques Brownlee and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman. This vehicle also represents the tangible collaboration between Tesla and SpaceX, as the two companies increasingly work together in areas such as AI, robotics, and chip manufacturing facilities like Terafab.

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