Tesla sent its new Roadster prototype airborne Thursday at SpaceX’s testing facility in McGregor, unveiling an electric sports car with thrusters and a suction system that helped it drive upside down.
The prototype climbed a towering ramp, rotated through the air and returned to the ground during the October 15 demonstration, Car and Driver reported.
Tesla also presented a zero-to-60-mph run timed at 0.81 seconds, Road & Track reported. That figure reflects the company’s demonstration, rather than an independently verified production-car record.
Roadster event livestream https://t.co/G0jU4mWfid
— Tesla (@Tesla) October 15, 2026
The 7:55 clue
Even the advertised start time carried a possible movie reference. Tesla scheduled its livestream for 7:55 p.m. Central, or 19:55 on a 24-hour clock. In Back to the Future, Marty McFly travels to 1955.
The timing prompted speculation about a deliberate nod to the film, Not a Tesla App reported. Tesla’s event announcement gave the time without explaining the choice.
Suction below, thrusters around the car
The hardware includes cold-gas thrusters, Tesla’s website says. Its fan system pulls air from beneath the vehicle, generating enough suction to hold it upside down even while stationary, according to the company.
Tesla distinguishes the two-seat Performance version from two optional upgrades. Thrust adds rear-mounted thrusters for sub-second acceleration. The invitation-only Rocket version seats one person and adds thrusters around the vehicle for upward movement and rotation.
Tesla includes a clear restriction with the Rocket description: “Not approved for public road use.” The company also says that version will not be available in every region.
Space-inspired details
The Roadster’s aerospace theme extends to its appearance. Tesla says its Ano White paint draws inspiration from aerospace protective finishes, while the tinted windows mimic the golden appearance of spacesuit visors.
Inside, the company lists a steer-by-wire yoke, fixed seating, a central touchscreen and two smaller forward displays. Magnesium, titanium and carbon fiber help reduce weight, according to Tesla.
A 2028 production target
CEO Elon Musk said production would begin in 2028, Reuters reported. Tesla first showed a next-generation Roadster prototype in 2017 and initially targeted deliveries for 2020.
Musk claimed a top speed above 230 mph during Thursday’s presentation. Tesla did not announce a purchase price at the event, Road & Track reported.
The reveal adds another Texas chapter for Tesla. The Dallas Express previously covered the company’s April Robotaxi rollout in Dallas and Houston.
Provided by Dallas Express
