Okay, we know this isn’t exactly a roller coaster story, but when a car starts driving upside down before flipping through the air, it’s hard not to take notice!
Tesla has finally unveiled its long-awaited next-generation Roadster, and the reveal was certainly one to remember. Demonstrated at a SpaceX testing facility in Texas, the futuristic electric supercar pulled off a series of manoeuvres that wouldn’t look out of place at a theme park.
The car was shown climbing a huge curved ramp, driving upside down and then launching into the air before landing back on its wheels. In another demonstration, it even flipped over a line-up of vehicles. Yes, really!
So, how does it do it? The Roadster features technology developed with SpaceX, including compressed-gas thrusters that help it perform its airborne stunts. Tesla also claims the car can accelerate from 0–60mph in just 0.81 seconds. Thats twice as fast as Stealth! Reportedly it can reach a top speed of more than 230mph, which is pretty much Formula 1 speed equivalent.
Of course, there’s a catch. This isn’t quite a flying car you’ll be able to take for a spin down your local high street. The most extreme airborne features are not approved for public road use, and Tesla is targeting production in 2028.
Still, the idea of a car capable of launching itself into the air is pretty wild. We spend plenty of time talking about the latest theme park rides here at TPD, but this is one vehicle that could give some of them a run for their money!
Would you queue up for a passenger seat ride in this car, if it appeared at your local theme park?
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