Tesla Roadster Revealed With SpaceX Thrusters, 0-60 mph 0.8s

Tesla Roadster Claims 0–97 km/h in 0.81 Seconds

During the global launch demonstration, Tesla showed a prototype accelerating from 0–60 mph (0–97 km/h) in a claimed 0.81 seconds using rear-mounted thrusters, improving on an earlier run of approximately one second. CEO Elon Musk suggested that the production version could be even quicker.

Tesla says the new Roadster will exceed 230 mph (370 km/h), although Musk has suggested that its eventual top speed could surpass Mach 0.5, equivalent to approximately 617 km/h under standard sea-level conditions.

These figures remain manufacturer claims rather than independently verified production-car specifications. Tesla has not confirmed which production configuration corresponds to the 0.81-second acceleration demonstration.

Three Tesla Roadster Versions Announced

Tesla has outlined three configurations with different performance targets and equipment.

• Performance: A road-oriented, two-seat version claiming 0–60 mph (0–97 km/h) in under 1.6 seconds. It features active aerodynamics, an adjustable rear wing and a multi-mode underbody suction system.

• Thrust: A limited-production, two-seat version adding rear-mounted cold-gas acceleration thrusters. Tesla claims 0–60 mph (0–97 km/h) in under 0.9 seconds.

• Rocket: An invitation-only, single-seat version featuring additional perimeter-mounted thrusters for upward movement, aerial rotations and directional control. Tesla claims 0–60 mph (0–97 km/h) in under 0.59 seconds.

The Rocket configuration is not approved for public-road use. Its availability and potential operation will depend on applicable regulations.

SpaceX Thrusters Allow the Tesla Roadster to Fly

The Roadster combines underbody fans with SpaceX-developed cold-gas thrusters to perform manoeuvres beyond those of conventional road cars.

During the global launch event, a prototype climbed a curved ramp and travelled upside down, supported by a suction system that Tesla claims can generate approximately 2g of downward force.

The vehicle then used compressed-gas thrusters to perform aerial rotations and control its landing. Another demonstration showed the Roadster jumping over several Tesla vehicles, including the Cybertruck and Cybercab.

The thrusters use highly pressurised gas, primarily nitrogen, stored in carbon-fibre-overwrapped pressure vessels rather than combustion-based rocket fuel. Tesla says the system can replenish its gas supply.

According to reports from the unveiling, the thrusters can generate more than 80 kN of force, with Tesla claiming they produce four to five times the force that the tyres can transmit to the road.

The underbody suction system is designed to increase grip, including at low speeds. In Track Mode, the vehicle lowers itself and adjusts its active aerodynamic surfaces, with rear-wing actuation using technology developed for Tesla's Optimus humanoid robot.

Tesla claims the system can deliver downforce approaching Formula 1 levels, although this has not been independently verified.

Tesla Roadster Exterior and Interior

The redesigned Roadster adopts a low, wedge-shaped silhouette inspired by high-performance aircraft, including the SR-71 Blackbird and F-35 fighter jet.

Exterior highlights include butterfly-style doors, distinctive lighting, sculpted aerodynamic bodywork and an active rear wing that adjusts between high-drag and high-downforce settings.

The minimalist interior features deeply bolstered sports seats, a yoke-style steering wheel, floor-mounted pedals and a driver-oriented central touchscreen. An additional slim display beneath the windscreen provides driving information.

Unlike most current Tesla models, the prototype also features mechanical door-release mechanisms.

The display vehicle lacked conventional exterior mirrors and a visible windscreen wiper, although production equipment may differ to meet regulatory requirements.

Tesla Roadster Range and Specifications

Tesla claims a driving range exceeding 300 miles (approximately 483 km), substantially below the 620 miles (approximately 998 km) originally promised for the 2017 concept.

The original concept also featured a 2+2 seating arrangement and a claimed top speed exceeding 250 mph (402 km/h). The redesigned Roadster offers two seats in Performance and Thrust configurations, while the Rocket version has a single seat to accommodate additional equipment.

Final battery capacity, motor output, charging specifications, vehicle weight and production-ready performance figures remain unconfirmed.

Tesla Roadster Price, Reservations and Production

Following the global launch, Tesla has reportedly reopened reservations for selected configurations, although final vehicle prices have not been announced.

The reported reservation requirements are:

• Performance: US50,000(approximatelyAED183,600),comprisinganinitialUS5,000 payment and a further US$45,000 within 10 days.

• Thrust: US$250,000 (approximately AED 918,100) for the limited-release configuration.

• Rocket: Invitation-only, with no publicly announced price.

These figures represent reservation amounts, not the final purchase prices of the vehicles.

For comparison, the original 2017 Roadster concept carried an indicative starting price of US$200,000 (approximately AED 734,500). This should not be treated as the price of the redesigned model.

Tesla is targeting production in 2028 but has not confirmed customer delivery dates.