Urdu Report Desk
US electric vehicle manufacturer Tesla has unveiled its new Roadster sports car, showcasing extraordinary acceleration and the ability to jump, flip and manoeuvre in the air using rocket-like thrusters.
Developed in collaboration with Elon Musk’s space company, SpaceX, the two-seat electric vehicle attracted attention during a demonstration at a SpaceX testing facility in Texas on Thursday. Tesla has set a target of 2028 to begin production, although the model has faced repeated delays since it was first announced nearly a decade ago.
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— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) October 16, 2026
Dramatic Demonstration at SpaceX Facility
During the event, a white Roadster was shown moving backwards up a ramp, flipping in the air and landing with the help of installed thrusters. The demonstration also featured the vehicle jumping over a truck and other vehicles.
The demonstration was developed jointly by Tesla and SpaceX engineers. Thrusters work by rapidly releasing gas or air to generate force, helping an object move or change direction. SpaceX uses similar technology in its rockets.
Elon Musk said the Roadster’s speed and performance would distinguish it from conventional electric vehicles.
Acceleration and Top Speed Claims
Tesla engineering chief Lars Moravy said the new Roadster could accelerate from zero to 60 miles per hour (approximately 97 km/h) in less than one second.
According to the company, the vehicle could achieve a top speed exceeding 230 miles per hour, or approximately 370 km/h. Musk expressed hopes of achieving even higher speeds, suggesting that the car could approach half the speed of sound.
Tesla also claims the Roadster will be capable of travelling more than 300 miles, or approximately 480 kilometres, on a single charge.
Reservation Prices and Special Editions
Tesla has introduced advance payment requirements for different versions of the Roadster. According to the company’s reservation page, customers must pay $50,000 upfront for the Performance version and $250,000 for the Thruster version.
The Thruster edition will feature additional thrusters designed to enhance acceleration and movement.
Tesla has also presented a special version called the Roadster Rocket, which the company says will be available by invitation only. The model is described as having a single seat and a complete flight system.
However, Tesla has not announced final prices for the new models. The company initially quoted a base price of $200,000 when it first introduced the Roadster concept nearly a decade ago, leaving the total cost for prospective buyers uncertain.
Tesla’s Broader Technology Strategy
The Roadster’s unveiling comes as Tesla faces pressure over vehicle sales and its long-term business strategy. The company is increasingly investing in artificial intelligence, autonomous driving technology and humanoid robots alongside its electric vehicle business.
Earlier this year, Tesla discontinued sales of the Model S and Model X to make room for production of its Optimus humanoid robots at the facilities previously used to manufacture the vehicles.
The company has also introduced the Cybercab, a two-seat autonomous taxi designed without conventional controls such as a steering wheel, pedals and side mirrors.
Production Target and Sales Challenges
Tesla plans to begin Roadster production in 2028. The company is also scheduled to release its third-quarter financial results on October 21.
Over the past two years, Tesla has experienced declining sales of its ageing electric vehicle models. However, elevated fuel prices helped increase vehicle deliveries in the most recent quarter.
The Roadster’s unveiling represents a high-profile demonstration of Tesla’s ambitions in electric vehicle performance and advanced propulsion technology. Its ultimate success, however, will depend on whether the company can deliver the vehicle on schedule and meet its claims regarding speed, range, price and practical usability.
