Tesla présente un roadster volant équipé de fusées

Tesla unveiled its redesigned Roadster on October 16, 2026, at a presentation in Waco, Texas. The vehicle features rocket-like propulsion systems that allow it to perform aerial maneuvers, including flying upside down and hovering above the ground. According to Reuters, the Roadster uses technology similar to that found in spacecraft for movement in space. The car can accelerate from zero to 60 miles per hour in less than one second and has a top speed exceeding 370 kilometers per hour. Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, described the unveiling as showcasing "the result of a collaboration between the best automobile manufacturer and the best rocket company in the world." The demonstration included the Roadster driving upside down on a ramp using a suction system, performing mid-air flips, and even flying over parked vehicles. The propulsion system relies on cold gas thrusters, which provide thrust through compressed air stored in two tanks with a combined volume of 600 liters. These thrusters enable the car to hover, flip, and maneuver in ways previously thought impossible for terrestrial vehicles. Musk mentioned the possibility of achieving half the speed of sound, approximately 617 kilometers per hour, though this remains speculative. The production of the Roadster is scheduled to begin in 2028, according to Musk. However, the exact price has yet to be announced. For reservations, customers must pay $5,000 upfront, with an additional $245,000 due within ten days for the version equipped with thrusters. The standard Performance variant requires $50,000 for reservation. The company emphasized that the "Rocket" variant, capable of flight, would only be available upon invitation and might not be accessible in all regions due to regulatory restrictions. The Roadster's propulsion system includes ten nozzles for executing maneuvers and a powerful suction system that allows the car to adhere to surfaces vertically. This system was demonstrated during the presentation, with the Roadster driving upside down on a ramp. The propulsion system also enables controlled takeoffs and landings, allowing the car to leap over obstacles. However, Musk acknowledged that some functions may not be legally permissible everywhere, particularly the ability to fly over other vehicles, raising safety concerns. The development of the Roadster aligns with Musk’s broader vision, which includes his leadership of SpaceX, a company heavily involved in rocket propulsion. There have been speculations about integrating Tesla and SpaceX under a unified structure. During the presentation, Musk highlighted the Roadster as the last Tesla vehicle intended to be driven manually, emphasizing the shift towards autonomous driving and humanoid robots. Despite the impressive capabilities showcased, skepticism exists regarding Tesla’s approach to autonomous driving. Some rivals and experts question the reliability of Tesla’s solution, which relies solely on cameras instead of more expensive laser radar systems used by competitors. Musk had initially planned to launch the Roadster in 2020 after revealing a prototype in 2017, but delays have pushed back the production start significantly. The Roadster’s design incorporates advanced aerodynamics and a high-capacity battery system, offering a range of up to 480 kilometers. It is set to be available in three configurations, each tailored to different performance levels. While the specifics of production numbers remain unclear, Tesla has confirmed that all Roadster models will include the suction system to enhance road grip. During the presentation, the Roadster performed a series of stunts, including flying over a truck and other vehicles, demonstrating its potential for both practical and entertainment purposes. The event took place on a SpaceX test site, underscoring the close relationship between Tesla and SpaceX. Musk emphasized the significance of public witnessing to confirm the authenticity of the demonstration, stating that the technology should not be mistaken for AI-generated animation. The unveiling of the Roadster marks a significant step forward in automotive innovation, blending elements of aerospace engineering with electric vehicle technology. As production approaches in 2028, further details about pricing, availability, and regulatory compliance will become clearer. Until then, the Roadster remains a concept that challenges conventional notions of mobility and transportation.