Tesla’s next-generation Roadster might not need anyone behind the wheel to perform its most extreme maneuvers. Just two days after the electric supercar made its long-awaited debut, CEO Elon Musk says owners will be able to command the Roadster to perform its stunts autonomously.
Musk also teased plans for an elaborate test track at Tesla’s Texas headquarters, where owners will be able to experience the Roadster’s capabilities.
Roadster takes flight after years of delays
The announcement follows Tesla’s October 15 unveiling at SpaceX’s McGregor, Texas facility, where the Roadster demonstrated capabilities unlike anything previously seen from a production-intended vehicle.
During the event, Tesla showed the Roadster driving upside down, briefly flying using SpaceX-developed cold-gas thrusters, and accelerating from 0-60 mph in approximately 0.8 seconds.
The reveal came nearly nine years after Tesla first announced the second-generation Roadster in 2017. Originally expected to enter production in 2020, the car is now targeting 2028.
Musk promises autonomous tricks and a Hot Wheels-style track
Responding to technology commentator Robert Scoble on X, Musk claimed that the Roadster’s advanced computer-controlled systems would allow it to perform its tricks without direct driver input.
“You will be able to ask the Roadster to perform any of the tricks shown autonomously, as it will be sentient.”
Musk also teased a dedicated facility for owners.
“Also, we will have a wild looping track (crazier even than Hot Wheels) at our Texas HQ where you can test out your Roadster.”
The Roadster features steer-by-wire, brake-by-wire, and throttle-by-wire systems, alongside a sophisticated array of fans and thrusters.
The comments also add an interesting twist to Musk’s claim during the unveiling that the Roadster would eventually be Tesla’s last only manually driven vehicle.
With production still two years away, questions remain about pricing, safety restrictions, and which capabilities owners will actually be permitted to use. Tesla has already confirmed that its most extreme Rocket configuration will not be approved for public roads.
Related Articles:
- Tesla Roadster finally revealed with thrusters, sub-one-second acceleration and ability to fly…actually
- Tesla’s Roadster Can Actually Fly – Here’s How
- Tesla Roadster’s Fan Suction System Generates Enough Downforce to Hold It Upside Down
- Tesla Roadster reservations reopen in Canada and the U.S.
Always get the latest - make Drive Tesla your preferred source on Google
Are you buying a Tesla? If you enjoy our content and we helped in your decision, use our referral link to get three months of Full Self-Driving (FSD).Drive Tesla uses affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through them, at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support.
