Tesla has unveiled its next-generation Roadster at a SpaceX test site in McGregor, Texas, nearly nine years after CEO Elon Musk first introduced the concept in November 2017. The electric sports car features SpaceX-developed technologies such as rocket thrusters, powerful fans, and specialized pressure vessels.
Tesla claims the vehicle can accelerate from zero to 60 miles per hour in less than one second. A demonstration showed the Roadster flipping in mid-air and hovering briefly before landing.
Despite the unveiling, commercial production is not expected to begin until 2028. Tesla has repeatedly missed earlier delivery targets and has not announced the final price or complete specifications. Reservations have reopened in the United States, Canada, and China with deposits of $50,000.
The unveiling intensified speculation about a potential Tesla–SpaceX merger, as the companies continue collaborating on technology and share personnel. SpaceX was valued at approximately $2 trillion, compared to Tesla’s market capitalization of $1.4 trillion. However, neither company has confirmed merger plans. The Roadster is expected to remain a premium, low-volume vehicle, which limits its potential near-term financial impact on Tesla.
