By Maliah Grote & Jordyn Powell
We’ve all dreamed about a future where flying cars become a reality, and that future might be nearer than we think! On October 15, Tesla revealed a preview of its highly anticipated next-generation Roadster, giving the world a glimpse of what could be the next big step in transportation. Developed with help from SpaceX technology, the Roadster features rocket-style thrusters that allow it to briefly lift off the ground and perform impressive movements in the air.
During the live showcase at SpaceX’s facility in McGregor, Texas, the vehicle put on a show that looked straight out of a sci-fi movie. Using a fan-based suction system, the prototype drove up a massive curved ramp until it was completely upside down, then fired its thrusters to flip midair and land back on its wheels. In another stunt, the car launched over a row of parked vehicles and a semi-truck, executing a midair flip before touching down safely.
Rather than burning traditional rocket fuel, the SpaceX package relies on ten nozzles connected to ultra-high-pressure compressed-air tanks. These cold-gas thrusters break through traditional physics—generating four to five times more force than tires alone. As a result, Tesla claims the vehicle can launch from 0 to 60 mph in under one second and reach top speeds exceeding 230 mph.