17th August 2026 – (Palo Alto)
Tesla is weighing the possibility of unveiling its long-discussed flying car concept, according to recent reports, with the debut to be linked to the highly anticipated next generation of the Roadster model. The innovative demonstration is expected to utilise cold gas thrusters developed in partnership with SpaceX, and could be staged at SpaceX’s McGregor site in Texas as soon as later this month. The Information noted that the flying Roadster would be remotely piloted, without a driver onboard, and strict precautions would be in place due to the power of the thrusters, which present significant noise and safety challenges for onlookers.
Lars Moravy, Tesla’s Vice President of Vehicle Engineering, confirmed that the Roadster remains actively in development, adding that plans for a public demonstration are progressing and expected to produce impressive results. Chief Executive Elon Musk has stoked excitement on social media and internally at Tesla, although he has acknowledged the technical complexities involved in realising a working prototype of a flying car.
The prospect of such a demonstration briefly boosted Tesla’s share price, with a rise to 351.26 before settling up 0.7 per cent at Friday’s close. Meanwhile, competing air-taxi firms, Archer Aviation and Joby Aviation, saw their shares dip in reaction to the publicity around Tesla’s potential entry to the sector.
The original Tesla Roadster, which first reached customers in 2008, was discontinued in 2012. A new version has been promised for nearly a decade, with multiple delays frustrating fans and would-be owners. Attempts to debut a prototype this April were pushed back to August, and the last official presentation of an updated model took place in November 2017.