Tesla executive Lars Moravy addressed concerns regarding the feasibility of the new Roadster's flight capabilities. He confirmed that the vehicle uses a cold gas propulsion system capable of generating over 80kN of thrust. Moravy noted that this thrust is more than three times the vehicle's total weight of 2500 kg, allowing for maneuvers and lift.
The Roadster will be available in three versions: Performance, Thrust, and Rocket. The Thrust model features a 200-liter carbon-fiber gas tank behind the seats, providing 5 seconds of propulsion and enabling a 0-60 mph acceleration time of under 1 second. The Rocket version removes the passenger seat to accommodate an additional 400-liter tank, totaling 600 liters of capacity.
The Rocket configuration includes six thrusters positioned at the corners and front of the vehicle for attitude control. Currently, refilling the 600-liter nitrogen system takes 6 to 7 hours. Tesla is developing a fast-charging system with the goal of reducing the refill time to approximately 30 minutes. The company plans to begin production of the Roadster in 2028.
