Elon Musk showcases hovering Tesla Roadster prototype developed with SpaceX

Tesla chief executive Elon Musk has unveiled a new version of the Tesla Roadster electric sports car at a Texas facility owned by SpaceX. The BBC reported that SpaceX helped develop the vehicle, which features air jets designed to allow it to hover and maneuver in the air. [1][3]

During the presentation, Musk told the audience that they were going to see crazy stuff and stated that live observers were required to prove the vehicle was not artificial intelligence. A demonstration showed the Roadster driving up a steep ramp, launching into the air, spinning, and landing with the assistance of air thrusters, according to the BBC. [1][3]

Inc. Magazine and Yahoo Autos also covered the event, noting that the unveil relied on major promises while leaving uncertainty around product realities. Yahoo Finance reported that the collaboration between the electric vehicle maker and the aerospace firm raised questions regarding potential future corporate ties. [2][4][5][6]

Despite the live demonstration, regulatory and technical hurdles remain significant. The BBC technology editor Zoe Kleinman reported that consumers are unlikely to see flying vehicles on public roads in the near future. [1][3]