During Tesla’s recent Roadster unveiling, the company showcased an exciting flying supercar version featuring SpaceX thrusters capable of impressive stunts. However, whether this flying Roadster will be legal to drive on public roads remains an open question, with CEO Elon Musk giving vague answers.
Musk’s Ambiguous Comments on Road Legality
At the event in Waco, Texas, Musk confirmed the Roadster will be a real car equipped with flying capabilities, powered by compressed-air thrusters that enable it to perform flips and drive upside down. Despite this, Musk hesitated when asked if the car would be street legal everywhere. He mentioned, “I’m not necessarily sure it’s legal in all jurisdictions,” though he affirmed that such a car will exist for owner use.
When pressed directly by the audience about street legality, Musk replied, “Yeah, yeah. Depends on your street. But it’ll be a viable car.” This suggests the car might meet regulations in some areas but not universally.
Multiple Versions with Different Road Use Intentions
Tesla’s Roadster reservation page lists three versions that hint at different levels of road readiness:
- Performance: Described as “road ready with seating for two,” implying it could be street legal and usable on public roads.
- Thrust: Called “race ready,” this trim adds acceleration thrusters but may be aimed more at track use than public roads.
- Rocket: Invite-only with “air ready” status and seating for one, likely focusing on flying capability over street legality.
This tiered approach suggests Tesla may limit the flying features to exclusive track or private use models while offering a street-legal Roadster version without full flying ability.
Still Many Details Unknown
The event showcased eye-catching stunts and impressive claimed performance figures, such as 0-60 mph in 0.81 seconds thanks to the thrusters and strong downforce from special aerodynamic features. However, no information was shared about pricing, battery range, or charging specs.
Tesla previously targeted a 620-mile range for the Roadster when first revealed in 2017, but the latest presentation did not confirm if this remains the goal. The limited production and high price expected mean the Roadster will be a niche supercar, possibly more suited to tracks and private property if flying is involved.
Production Timeline
Tesla plans to start producing the Roadster in 2028. Until then, many important details about how and where the flying capabilities can be used remain unclear.
Source: insideevs.com