The New Tesla Roadster Sucks, But It’s Also Awesome

By now, we’ve all seen Elon’s latest advancement in the new Tesla Roadster. When it was first unveiled, it broke the Internet with tricks like flying over obstacles, driving up a wall, and staying upside down in a manner reminiscent of Spider-Man. Even with all that pizzazz and showmanship, Elon actually created a supercar that might be worth looking forward to — if it ever comes to fruition.

First and foremost, the influence of SpaceX is all over this vehicle, from the advanced cold-gas thrusters to the multi-mode fan and ground sealing system that doubles as a downforce generator. If you’ve seen the pictures where the car is driving vertically, this is thanks to that system. It works like a vacuum cleaner, but instead of sucking something up, it removes air out from underneath the vehicle to create enough suction so the car sticks in place — even upside down. On terra firma, the system works with active wings and high-powered fans that maximize traction for maneuverability.

The multi-mode fan and ground sealing system work with a next-gen steer-by-wire system and Track Mode for optimal racing performance. Activating Track Mode lowers the car and transforms the suspension and steering system to better respond to the road conditions the vehicle encounters. If you find yourself needing to make a pass, there are also high downforce or low drag modes that can be deployed.

Tesla advertises that thanks to the limited-release Thrust performance system, the Roadster can go 0-60 mph in less than a second. If you’re cool enough to receive an invite, you could also opt for the Rocket performance system that pairs the multi-mode suction system with cold-gas thrusters to make the vehicle take flight. At the moment, the Rocket performance system is not approved for public road use; however, if the car can fly, then technically where you’re going you wouldn’t need roads. I guess to the chagrin of Doc Brown (of “Back to the Future”), you’d have to land sometime, and when you do, that’s when they’ll getcha.

The Ano White exterior combines minimalism with hints of NASA. Its sharp edges are very Tesla Cybertruck-esque, but the paint provides electrostatic dissipation, corrosion resistance, and UV protection. After entering with the scissor doors raised, driver and passenger settle behind a windshield tinted gold that provides a look inspired by the copper visors that astronauts wear. Other exterior features include hidden headlights (though not in the romantic manner of the past), a full-width taillight, and extra-light wheels with thin spokes for structural strength reinforcement (at least when on Earth).

Inside, the driver is greeted with a yoke steering wheel and center-mounted touchscreen that provides entertainment and critical information. The Ultrawhite interior includes gray microsuede seat bolsters that are prominently featured in the rest of the cabin.

Tesla’s Roadster has been turning heads, even receiving praise from Ferrari CEO Benedetto Vigna. According to Elon, Tesla is planning to begin production of the Roadster in 2028. Pricing has not been announced, but something tells me it’ll be astronomical.