Second-generation Tesla Roadster revealed with SpaceX thrusters, production set for 2028 – Yes, it flies!

The long-awaited second-generation Tesla Roadster has finally made its debut. At the unveiling, Tesla showcased a specially modified stunt prototype that is not road-legal, while the production version is expected to enter manufacturing in 2028.

The new Roadster is expected to be offered in two versions: Standard and Founders Series.

SpaceX thrusters: Yes, it flies!

One of the biggest highlights of the second-generation Roadster is its cold-gas thruster system, developed in collaboration with aerospace company SpaceX.

The system uses directional jets of high-pressure inert gas to generate additional thrust. It is claimed to reduce the Roadster's 0–100 km/h acceleration time to around 1.1 seconds, while also allowing the car to briefly lift off the ground and even perform a roll in mid-air.

Tesla demonstrated the technology during the unveiling, although the company stressed that the system is designed to provide assistance only for very short periods, primarily during hard launches and cornering. It is not intended to allow the car to fly continuously.

Fan system for extra grip

To help keep the Roadster firmly planted on the road, Tesla has also developed a multi-mode fan & ground sealing system.

The system uses fans beneath the vehicle to create suction, effectively pulling the car towards the road surface to increase grip. According to Tesla, this could allow the Roadster to achieve lateral acceleration of up to 2g when cornering at high speeds.

1,000 km range, 2.1-second sprint

Based on previously announced specifications, the second-generation Roadster is expected to feature a 200 kWh battery pack and a tri-motor all-wheel-drive system.

Its claimed performance figures include:

• Peak wheel torque: Up to 10,000 Nm
• 0-100 km/h acceleration (standard version): 2.1 seconds
• Top speed: Over 400 km/h
• Driving range: Up to 1,000 km (620 miles) on a full charge

If achieved in production form, these figures would put the second-generation Roadster among the highest-performing electric hypercars, both in terms of acceleration and driving range.