Tesla Unveils Roadster 2 With Claimed 0–60 MPH Time of 1 Second and Flight Capability

Tesla and CEO Elon Musk have unveiled what they describe as the company’s last human-driven car: the Roadster 2, a long-awaited successor to Tesla’s original Roadster.

New Tesla Roadster Demonstrates Flight Technology

At a demonstration event held Thursday night at SpaceX’s rocket development and test facility in McGregor, Texas, the Roadster 2 delivered on one of Musk’s long-standing promises. The electric sports car took off into the air, emitting a jerky stream of steam. At one point, it flipped the company’s entire lineup and floated several feet above an electric semi-truck.

Tesla executives said the Roadster 2 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in one second.

“This is not necessarily a safety-optimized car,” Musk said.

Roadster 2 Production Set for 2028

Tesla fans have been waiting for the car for years. The Roadster 2 was first announced in 2017, when Tesla said the new sports car would be the world’s fastest production car.

Lars Moravy, Tesla’s head of vehicle engineering, said the car’s “flight” technology is enabled by four thrusters.

Musk said Tesla plans to begin production in 2028. The company originally promised to ship the Roadster 2 in 2020. Enthusiasts paid $50,000 deposits for the advertised $200,000 car. That deposit is worth more than $68,000 in 2026 dollars.

Some reservation holders say they are tired of waiting. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman said he complained to X last year after having difficulty canceling his reservation. Musk posted that Altman received his refund within 24 hours.

Musk Says Tesla Is Moving Beyond Automobiles

Musk said Tesla should no longer be considered an automaker. He said the company is focused on developing self-driving car technology and robots.

Roadster 2 Arrives During a Difficult Period for EVs

The launch comes at a challenging time for electric vehicles. U.S. electric vehicle sales have stalled after the Republican-led Congress ended federal support. Meanwhile, the global energy crisis raises questions about whether EV sales are stronger in other regions.

Electric luxury hypercars, the category that includes the Roadster 2, face particular challenges. Luxury automakers say wealthy buyers increasingly want the sound and power of a traditional gasoline car. Lamborghini shelved its EV manufacturing plans earlier this year.

This is a developing story. Please check back for the latest information.