Tesla Reveals SpaceX Thruster Roadster with 0-60 in 1 Second

Key Takeaways

• Tesla revealed its redesigned SpaceX-powered Roadster capable of mid-air hover maneuvers.
• The supercar boasts sub-one-second 0-to-60 mph acceleration and top speeds exceeding 230 mph.
• Three trims were announced: Performance, Thrust, and the invite-only Rocket trim.
• The thruster system uses 10 nozzles connected to a rechargeable 600-liter compressed air tank.
• Tesla targets production for 2028 with reservation deposits starting at $50,000.

Tesla has officially unveiled its redesigned second-generation Roadster, integrating SpaceX cold-gas thruster technology to achieve extreme acceleration and airborne maneuvers. As reported by TechCrunch, CEO Elon Musk demonstrated the vehicle outside Waco, Texas, showing it launch off ramps, spin in midair, and clear other Tesla vehicles.

Three High-Performance Trims

Tesla detailed three distinct configurations for the upcoming electric supercar:

• Performance ("Road Ready"): A two-seater equipped with active aerodynamics and a multi-mode suction system for optimized track handling.
• Thrust ("Race Ready"): A two-seater featuring rear-mounted cold-gas thrusters capable of sub-one-second 0-to-60 mph acceleration.
• Rocket ("Air Ready"): An invite-only, single-seat variant featuring 10 cold-gas thrusters strategically positioned around the chassis.

Engineering Specs and Release Timeline

All variants target 300 miles of electric range and top speeds above 230 mph. Tesla VP of Engineering Lars Moravy noted that the system utilizes 10 thrusters fed by a 600-liter compressed air tank integrated into carbon fiber voids throughout the car.

Tesla plans to begin production on the long-delayed vehicle in 2028. Reservation deposits are currently set at $50,000 for the Performance model and $250,000 for the Thrust trim.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will the new Tesla Roadster be released?

Tesla CEO Elon Musk stated that the company aims to build the long-delayed Roadster in 2028.

How fast is the SpaceX-powered Tesla Roadster?

The Thrust trim delivers 0-to-60 mph acceleration in under one second, with a top speed over 230 mph.

How much does it cost to reserve the Tesla Roadster?

Reservations cost $50,000 for the Performance trim and $250,000 for the Thrust trim. The Rocket trim is invite-only.