Texas: Tesla has showcased updates on its next-generation Roadster electric sports car, highlighting performance targets that include 0 to 60 mph (96.6 km/h) acceleration in approximately one second.

The electric vehicle manufacturer provided details during an event near Waco, Texas, where CEO Elon Musk outlined a specialised propulsion concept developed in collaboration with SpaceX. The system explores using compressed air through small thruster nozzles to assist with acceleration, braking, and short localised hops.

Musk stated that Tesla is currently targeting production to begin around 2028, though final retail pricing and customer delivery schedules have not been finalised.

Compressed-air thruster technology

The most distinctive technical feature proposed for higher-performance trim levels is a compressed-air propulsion system.

According to vehicle engineering discussions, the proposed optional "SpaceX package" utilises 10 strategic nozzles connected to an onboard pressure-vessel tank. Pressurised air is expelled through the nozzles to generate instantaneous thrust, aiding cornering, launch, and brief bursts of vertical lift. The air supply can be recharged onboard using internal compressors.

Tesla has not yet detailed how cold-gas thruster technology would be regulated for public road use or which exact features will be included in standard production models.

Tesla Roadster acceleration and specifications

Tesla emphasised the Roadster's acceleration potential, targeting a 0–60 mph sprint in roughly one second using thruster assistance. If realised in a production model under verified conditions, this would represent one of the fastest acceleration figures for a road-going vehicle.

Musk credited engineering teams from both Tesla and SpaceX for developing the experimental cold-gas thruster hardware.

"This is the culmination of incredible work by Tesla and SpaceX engineers working closely together," Musk noted during the presentation.

Price and production timeline

Tesla confirmed that production is currently targeted for 2028 following previous delays.

When the second-generation Roadster concept was first unveiled, base models were estimated around $200,000, with a limited Founders Series offered at $250,000. However, Tesla has not confirmed final pricing or whether the cold-gas thrusters will be offered as a standard feature or an add-on option.

Availability in India

Tesla has not announced launch timelines, reservation details, or pricing for the Indian market. Any future availability would depend on Tesla's global manufacturing rollout, local import duties, and market-specific regulatory approvals.