Remember when Back to the Future imagined flying cars would be part of everyday life by 2015? Well, we're a decade on, and Tesla is bringing that idea a little closer to reality.
After almost nine years of delays, Tesla has finally revealed more details of its new Roadster, and it is certainly not short of surprises. Fans have also spotted a possible Back to the Future reference in the event timing, with the livestream scheduled for 7:55 pm, a potential nod to 1955, the year Marty McFly travels back to in the film.
A new take on the Tesla Roadster
The latest Roadster is a significant departure from the concept first unveiled in 2017. Its sharper, more geometric styling gives it a distinctive appearance compared with Tesla's existing models.
Tesla has also introduced three versions of the car: Performance, Thrust and Rocket. The latter two feature cold-gas thrusters designed to enhance performance, with the Rocket version adding a system capable of lifting the car into the air.
The Thrust version uses the technology to improve acceleration, with Tesla claiming a 0-60mph time of just 0.81 seconds. This figure includes a one-foot rollout, meaning the timing begins after the car has already travelled a short distance.
The Rocket version takes things a step further, using thrusters positioned around the car to perform airborne manoeuvres. However, Tesla has yet to confirm how long the car can remain airborne or how practical these capabilities will be outside controlled demonstrations. And before you start expecting flying cars on your morning commute, Tesla has confirmed that the Rocket version is not approved for road use.
SpaceX technology and performance
The Roadster's headline-grabbing features extend beyond its acceleration figures. Tesla has demonstrated the car performing aerial manoeuvres using its thruster system, while a multi-mode suction system helps hold it against surfaces during certain driving demonstrations.
Aerodynamics also play an important role, with an active rear wing designed to adjust its angle to provide suitable downforce in different driving conditions.
Tesla claims a top speed of more than 230mph and a driving range of over 300 miles, placing the Roadster firmly in hypercar territory while offering the potential for longer journeys between charges. The battery capacity has yet to be confirmed.
Its construction also uses lightweight materials, including magnesium, titanium and carbon fibre, to help support its performance ambitions.
Despite the dramatic claims, the full capabilities of the production car remain to be confirmed.
A new look inside and out
The changes continue inside, where the Roadster features a steering yoke connected electronically to the wheels, removing the need for a traditional mechanical steering connection. Electronic by-wire technology is also used for the braking and accelerator systems.
The original Roadster concept was designed as a four-seater, but the latest versions have a different layout. The Performance and Thrust models feature two seats, while the more extreme Rocket version has a single-seat configuration.
The overall design is a clear departure from the original concept, with a more angular, futuristic appearance that sets it apart from the Model S, Model 3 and other cars in Tesla's current line-up.
When will the Tesla Roadster go on sale?
Tesla says production is expected to begin in 2028, although the model has already faced several years of delays since its original announcement.
Reservations are now open, with a total reservation payment of £50,000 for the Performance version and £250,000 for the Thrust version. That's a £200,000 difference between the two, reflecting the additional rocket technology offered by the Thrust model. The Rocket version, which features the full flight system, is available by invitation only, with reservation costs yet to be confirmed. These figures are reservation payments rather than confirmed retail prices, and the Roadster is currently listed as left-hand drive only.
The company also states that this version is not approved for road use.
With its combination of electric performance and rocket-inspired technology, the Roadster is one of Tesla's most ambitious projects yet. Whether its extraordinary claims translate into a production-ready car remains to be seen, particularly with production still some way off.
