Musk unveils a flying Tesla with limits beyond its price
TEXAS — Elon Musk says the future has flying cars after Tesla demonstrated a Roadster capable of launching into the air. Buyers, however, will have to wait until at least 2028, and its “rocket” feature is not approved for public-road use.
“Turns out the future does have flying cars,” Musk posted on X after Thursday’s demonstration at SpaceX’s rocket testing facility in Texas.
The sports car uses cold gas thrusters to perform short airborne manoeuvres. Tesla also claims it can accelerate from zero to approximately 97km/h in less than a second.
The demonstration was conducted without a driver behind the wheel. Musk said this was a safety precaution, although Tesla intends the production Roadster to be driven by people.
The unveiling follows years of delays for the second-generation model. Musk’s latest production target is 2028, with regulatory approval still a barrier to using its airborne capabilities on ordinary roads.
Tesla’s website also notes that the Rocket version will not be available in all regions. For now, the demonstration showcases what the prototype can do, while customers await production and clarity on where its most unusual features can legally be used.
Anyone with additional information can contact the press desk at press@townpress.co.za or drop a tip on our annonymous platform https://tips.townpress.co.za/