Tesla demonstrated a prototype of the new Roadster at the SpaceX rocket testing facility in Texas. The vehicle features a rocket-based propulsion system, incorporating 10 cold-gas thrusters and two 600-liter carbon-fiber pressure vessels storing 250 kilograms of compressed air.
The car utilizes a high-power fan-based suction system to generate over 2G of vertical downforce, allowing it to exceed the 1.26G grip limit of traditional tires. During the demonstration, the vehicle performed a jump over a lineup of Tesla models, including the Cybertruck and Semi.
The Roadster achieved a 0 to 100 km/h acceleration time of 0.81 seconds, subjecting the driver to over 3G of instantaneous acceleration. The manufacturer states the vehicle will reach a top speed exceeding 370 km/h and maintain a range of over 300 miles.
The design of the Roadster incorporates aerodynamic elements inspired by the SR-71 Blackbird and F-35 fighter jets, as well as the Lotus Esprit submarine car. It features an adaptive rear spoiler and a diffuser integrated with rocket nozzles and air intake fans.
Elon Musk stated that the vehicle uses an onboard high-pressure self-charging system to compress air while driving, eliminating the need for specialized propellants. The company intends for the Roadster to remain a manual-driving vehicle, contrasting with the company's focus on autonomous Robotaxis.
