Tesla has introduced a new and completely redesigned version of its popular car Roadster after almost nine years. After a long wait since the concept was shown in 2017, the company has revealed three different configurations. This includes performance, thrust and rocket. The most special among these is the single-seat rocket variant, which is equipped with cold-gas thrusters. These thrusters enable the car to perform aerobatic tricks such as lift off, flips and barrel rolls.
The company demonstrated the performance of inverted driving, controlled airborne flip and barrel roll through live webcast. The company claims that the rocket version can achieve 0-60 mph (about 96.6 km/h) speed in just less than 0.59 seconds. Production is targeted to start in 2028 and reservations have also been opened.
Features of different versions
The performance version is a two-seater and is designed for road use. It has active aerodynamics and multi-mode suction system. Its 0-60 mph time is said to be less than 1.6 seconds. The thrust version is also a two-seater, but rear-mounted cold-gas thrusters have been added to it. It is meant for track use and accelerates from 0-60 mph in less than 0.9 seconds.
At the top is the single-seat rocket version. It has perimeter-mounted thrusters, which provide forward-upward acceleration and rotation speed. Its claimed time is less than 0.59 seconds. Range in all versions is said to be more than 300 miles (about 483 km), while the rocket’s top speed is above 230 mph (370 km/h).
How do thrusters and suction systems work?
Apart from tyres, Tesla has developed a system of additional grip and propulsion. The suction system pulls the car toward the road, while cold-gas thrusters generate force by releasing compressed gas. The company says that the thruster system can provide four to five times more force than the force received from the tire. New hardware and control systems have been used to customize SpaceX’s technology for the car. Compressed gas is stored in carbon-fibre pressure vessels.
Aircraft inspired design
Inspiration has been taken in the design from SR-71 and F-35 fighter jets. Sharp angular body, hidden headlights, full-width rear light and flush surface are its specialties. The rear wing opens in Track mode, which is based on the actuator technology of the Optimus program. Tesla claims that the aerodynamic downforce is close to Formula 1 levels.
Cabin and Comfort
Inside, ultra-white cabin, gray microsuede and supportive seat bolsters are provided. Magnesium, titanium and carbon fiber have been used to keep the weight down. The seat is fixed. Tesla is aiming to start production in 2028. At present this is a concept, but reservations have opened. Final specifications and delivery details are yet to come.
