Off a cliff, maybe?
Elon Musk is at it again, making bold claims about the future of Tesla’s next-generation Roadster. This time, he’s saying the Roadster will be able to fly. Yes, you read that right – fly. But should we believe him?
The second-generation Tesla Roadster has been a topic of conversation since it was first teased back in 2014. It wasn’t until 2017 that we saw a prototype, with promises of production starting in 2020. However, year after year, the Roadster’s release has been delayed, turning it into something of a running joke among car enthusiasts. Musk has continued to promise that the Roadster will hit the market, with the latest prediction being 2025.
Earlier this year, Musk hinted an updated version of the Roadster, involving SpaceX, would be revealed. This created a buzz, with many speculating about the potential for the car to have some form of aerial capability. Musk even suggested the new Roadster could include a ‘SpaceX package’ with cold air thrusters, which could theoretically allow the car to “fly” short distances or hover.
In a recent post on X, Musk stated simply, “The new Tesla Roadster can fly.” However, he didn’t provide any further details about how high, how long, or even when the car will be available. This isn’t the first time Musk has made such a claim, but given the history of delays and the ambitious nature of his statements, it’s hard to take it at face value.
The new Tesla Roadster can fly
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) June 15, 2024
The idea of a flying car is certainly intriguing, but it’s important to note that this isn’t the first time Musk has made grand promises about Tesla’s vehicles that have yet to materialize. For example, he previously claimed that the Cybertruck could serve as a boat to traverse short distances of water, a feature that has not yet been demonstrated.
Despite the skepticism, there’s no denying the Roadster’s specs are impressive, though. Musk has said it will be the quickest car in the world, capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in under a second. This incredible acceleration, however, might be the least interesting feature if the Roadster can indeed hover or fly.
Musk has also mentioned that the new Roadster will include advanced technology, such as steer-by-wire and possibly a modified steering yoke, similar to what is found in the Cybertruck. These features, combined with the potential aerial capabilities, could make the Roadster a truly groundbreaking vehicle – if it ever reaches production.
The ongoing delays and Musk’s track record of overpromising and underdelivering have led to a fair amount of skepticism. Many are taking a “wait and see” approach, unsure if the flying Roadster will ever become a reality. Meanwhile, those who placed early reservations for the Roadster are still waiting, some having shelled out significant deposits years ago.
As exciting as the idea of a flying car is, it’s clear that Tesla still has a lot to prove. The Roadster could indeed revolutionize the automotive industry, but until we see it in action, it’s hard to say whether Musk’s latest claims will come true. For now, we’ll just have to wait and see if the Roadster will soar into the future or remain grounded in reality.
