\u201cTurns out the future does have flying cars,” Elon Musk on X following the demonstration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The vehicle was demonstrated on October 15, 2026, at SpaceX\u2019s rocket testing facility in McGregor, Texas. During the presentation, which showcased joint engineering efforts between Tesla and SpaceX, the prototype drove up an inverted ramp, executed controlled mid-air attitude manoeuvres, and touched down under thruster control.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Musk explained that the vehicle features perimeter attitude-control thrusters and main thrusters mounted at the rear. \u201cThe car has obviously attitude control thrusters and main thrusters in the rear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“So it can basically fly like a rocket,\u201d Musk told attendees during the unveiling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Unlike conventional aerospace propulsion, the thrusters utilise ultra-high-pressure compressed air rather than chemical rocket fuel. To accommodate the heavy compressed-air pressure vessels, performance variants will replace the standard rear seats, transforming the car into a two-seater or single-seater layout.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Musk described the project as a cross-industry collaboration between his two companies: \u201cWhat happens when you have a collaboration with the world\u2019s best car company and the world\u2019s best rocket company.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
However, Musk acknowledged that the vehicle\u2019s regulatory and safety status remains complex. Tesla\u2019s official reservation portal highlights that thruster-assisted flight functions are strictly restricted from public road use, and street legality will vary significantly across global jurisdictions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cI should say that this is not necessarily a safety-optimised car. But it takes the Fun meter to 11 out of 10,\u201d Musk remarked, noting that regulatory frameworks for active aerial vehicle propulsion on public highways remain undeveloped.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tesla claims performance trim levels with active thruster engagement can achieve 0\u201360 mph acceleration in as little as 0.81 seconds, with top speed targets exceeding 230 mph. Mass production is slated to begin in 2028, following an eight-year gap since the model\u2019s initial announcement in 2017.<\/p>\n\n\n\n