Tesla Roadster: Elon Musk uploads video showing Tesla flying over a truck and other vehicles, watch viral footage

Tesla’s redesigned Roadster has grabbed attention after a video showed the electric sports car driving upside down on a curved ramp, flying briefly through the air and landing safely. The demonstration, held at a SpaceX facility in McGregor, Texas, on October 15, nearly nine years after the next-generation Roadster was first unveiled, has reignited interest in the possibility of flying cars.

Elon Musk shared the footage on his social media platform X, writing, “Turns out the future does have flying cars.” Tesla’s official account also posted video of the demonstration, offering viewers a glimpse of the unusual manoeuvres performed by the long-awaited electric supercar.

Watch the Tesla Roadster’s flying-car demonstration

The video shows the Roadster driving up a huge curved ramp and continuing along it upside down before launching into the air and landing safely. The demonstration showcased technology developed with SpaceX, Musk’s rocket company, and featured movements that would not be possible for a conventional road car.

The stunt has drawn attention to the redesigned Roadster and its experimental capabilities, although the demonstration took place under controlled conditions.

How SpaceX technology powers the Roadster’s aerial manoeuvres

The redesigned Roadster features SpaceX-developed cold-gas thrusters, which generate thrust by releasing pressurised gas. Combined with other specialised systems demonstrated at the event, the technology allows the vehicle to perform unusual movements, including brief airborne manoeuvres.

However, the demonstration does not establish that the Roadster can operate as a flying car in everyday conditions. There is no indication that the vehicle has been approved for airborne operation on public roads, while questions surrounding safety, practicality and regulatory clearance remain unresolved.

When will Tesla’s redesigned Roadster launch?

Tesla first announced its next-generation Roadster in November 2017, with production initially expected much earlier. The project has since faced repeated delays, leaving customers waiting for the electric sports car.

The company now plans to begin production in 2028, according to reports following Thursday’s unveiling. Customers may therefore have to wait longer before the redesigned Roadster becomes commercially available.

Are flying cars becoming a reality?

The demonstration has brought the concept of flying cars back into the spotlight, but it remains too early to determine whether such technology can become a practical part of everyday transport.

For now, the Roadster’s airborne manoeuvres offer a striking demonstration of experimental automotive technology rather than proof that flying cars are ready for public use. The vehicle’s eventual commercial capabilities, safety requirements and launch timeline remain key questions.