Tesla unveiled its redesigned Roadster on October 16, 2026, introducing a two-seat electric supercar equipped with active aerodynamics, ground-effect fans and optional cold-gas thrusters that the company says can lift the vehicle off the ground.
The reveal showcased a radical departure from the curvy concept shown in the 2010s, while Elon Musk indicated that production is planned for 2028.
According to reports from PistonHeads and CAR Magazine, the new Roadster adopts an angular, wedge-shaped design with flat body panels and a brushed-metal finish.
Tesla's Ano White coating draws inspiration from aerospace technology, while tinted windows are intended to resemble the copper-colored visors used in spacesuits.
The most unconventional feature is the Rocket version, which adds thrusters capable of lifting the vehicle into the air.
Tesla's unveiling demonstration showed the car rising off the ground and performing barrel rolls, although the company has not disclosed its maximum flight height, distance or duration.
Tesla also demonstrated the ground-effect fan system by driving the Roadster up a ramp, stopping vertically and continuing until the vehicle was upside down while remaining attached to the surface.
The technology is designed to increase downforce by drawing the car toward the road.
The manufacturer is offering three configurations: Performance, Thrust and Rocket.
The Performance model serves as the standard option, while Thrust adds four rear-facing cold-gas thrusters and Rocket incorporates additional thrusters around the vehicle.
According to CAR Magazine, Tesla claims the Thrust configuration can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in less than one second when the thrusters provide additional thrust.
The Rocket version extends that concept with the ability to leave the ground, although its road legality remains uncertain.
Musk addressed the distinction between the vehicle's intended road use and its more extreme configuration during the unveiling.
"This will be an actual car that is on the road," said Elon Musk. "Though I'm not sure this one is legal in all jurisdictions."
The Rocket configuration is not intended to comply with standard road-homologation requirements, according to PistonHeads.
The Thrust edition is described as a limited-run model, while the availability and regulatory status of the Rocket version remain important distinctions for prospective buyers.
The Roadster also introduces several conventional performance features.
An extendable rear wing is designed to increase downforce at speed, while active aerodynamic components adjust the car's configuration.
Tesla has demonstrated the vehicle's ability to remain attached to a ramp in an inverted position, highlighting the potential effect of its fan-assisted ground-effect system.
CAR Magazine reports that Tesla has not yet released a final purchase price.
The publication says customers can place an initial deposit of £5,000, followed by an additional £45,000 just 10 days later.
PistonHeads separately reports a £50,000 deposit for the standard Roadster and a £250,000 deposit for the Thrust configuration, reflecting differences in the reported reservation requirements.
The car's construction incorporates lightweight materials, including titanium, magnesium and carbon fiber, according to PistonHeads.
Inside, the vehicle features a yoke-style steering control, steer-by-wire technology and microsuede upholstery, while the cabin is designed exclusively for two occupants in the standard configurations.
Tesla has also highlighted a proposed top speed of 230 mph, while Musk has suggested the vehicle could approach 400 mph.
Those figures remain claims rather than independently verified production-car performance results, and the company has not provided complete specifications for power output, battery range or conventional acceleration.
The Roadster's development has stretched across nearly a decade since its earlier confirmation, with the latest unveiling reportedly delayed by weather.
Tesla is targeting production in 2028, although final pricing, complete technical specifications and the availability of the thruster-equipped versions have not been fully established.
