Tesla demonstrated a redesigned Roadster prototype at a SpaceX site in Texas, showing an electric sports car equipped with cold-gas thrusters. The vehicle completed several maneuvers, including a vertical jump of approximately 10 meters, an airborne rotation and a controlled landing behind a parked lineup of Tesla vehicles.
According to Tesla Vice President of Vehicle Engineering Lars Moravy, the Roadster has 10 thrusters that expel compressed air. Four appear to be positioned underneath the vehicle and two at the front, while four openings are visible at the rear. The car also uses a fan-based system that creates suction to increase downforce.
During the demonstration, the Roadster drove partway through a loop and stopped near the top in an almost inverted position. In a separate maneuver, it approached the parked vehicles, rose vertically amid vapor and a loud discharge of compressed air, rotated around its transverse axis and landed on the other side. Moravy said the airborne portion could have lasted longer.
Tesla also demonstrated acceleration to 60 mph in 0.81 seconds with assistance from the SpaceX technology. CEO Elon Musk set a speed target of at least half the speed of sound and said the vehicle is intended for road use, although he was uncertain whether the thruster-equipped version could receive approval in every jurisdiction.
The latest Roadster differs substantially in appearance from the prototype first presented in November 2017. Changes include narrower headlights, a continuous rear light bar and an adjustable, retractable rear spoiler. Tesla did not announce a price. Musk said production is planned to begin in 2028.
Source: teslamag.de
