Tesla has unveiled its redesigned Roadster electric sports car, showcasing a version fitted with rocket-style thrusters developed in collaboration with SpaceX that can lift the vehicle into the air.

The demonstration took place at an event in Texas on Thursday, October 15, where Tesla chief executive Elon Musk presented the long-awaited next-generation vehicle.

During the demonstration, the Roadster drove up a steep ramp, performed aerial manoeuvres and briefly lifted off the ground before landing.

The display featured aerodynamic technology, a suction system and cold-gas thrusters.

Musk described the vehicle as the result of close collaboration between engineers from Tesla and SpaceX.

“This is the culmination of incredible work by Tesla and SpaceX engineers working closely together to make something that you haven't seen in any movie,” he said.

Musk acknowledged that the demonstration carried some uncertainty but said the excitement was guaranteed.

“Success is not guaranteed,” he said. “And the excitement is 100 per cent guaranteed.”

Tesla later outlined three Roadster configurations: Performance, Thrust and Rocket. The Performance version is designed for road use, while the Thrust variant adds rear-mounted cold-gas thrusters. The single-seat Rocket version is designed to support upward and rotational movement using thrusters mounted around the vehicle.

Tesla says the Rocket configuration can accelerate from zero to 60 miles per hour in less than 0.59 seconds and reach speeds exceeding 230 miles per hour. The company also lists a range of more than 300 miles.

These figures are manufacturer claims, while the demonstration showcased the vehicle's ability to perform aerial manoeuvres. Final production specifications and availability remain subject to confirmation.

The company said the thruster system uses compressed gas stored in carbon-fibre pressure vessels. Adapting spacecraft technology for use in a vehicle required new hardware and control systems, it said.

Tesla also highlighted the Roadster's active aerodynamics, lightweight materials and multi-mode suction system, which are designed to improve grip, stability and performance.

The unveiling marks a new stage for a vehicle first announced in 2017 but delayed repeatedly. Production is now expected in 2028, meaning the demonstration does not signal immediate availability for buyers.

The presentation also drew attention beyond the automotive industry, with CNN journalist Larry Madowo reacting to the vehicle on social media.

“I want this in Nairobi immediately! What could possibly go wrong?” Madowo wrote on X.