Tesla unveils latest-generation Roadster with cold-gas thrusters
Jakarta (ANTARA) — Tesla has showcased its latest-generation Roadster, featuring an optional cold-gas thruster system, around nine years after unveiling the sports car’s concept prototype.
According to an Engadget report on Thursday (15 October), Elon Musk and the Tesla team introduced the vehicle at an event at SpaceX’s test site in McGregor, Texas, in the United States.
At the event, the latest Roadster drove up a C-shaped ramp before stopping on the section perpendicular to the ground, upside down.
The vehicle then repeated the manoeuvre, leaping from the top of the ramp and performing a flip while its propulsion system was active, allowing it to hover safely before touching down.
When the driver’s door was opened, an Optimus robot could be seen sitting inside.
However, this was only a demonstration. The stunt had been programmed into the vehicle.
Tesla said the Roadster has a suction system underneath the car that enables it to cling upside down to the ramp.
On its website, Tesla says its multi-mode fan system and ground-sealing system draw air from beneath the vehicle to create downforce, allowing it to remain attached upside down even when stationary.
The vehicle can jump from the ramp and land safely thanks to attitude-control thrusters and rear thrusters using technology from SpaceX.
The advanced cold-gas thrusters use electric actuators that enable precise thrust control and can make “micro-adjustments in a fraction of a second”.
Musk said production of the latest-generation Roadster would begin in 2028.
Tesla has opened advance reservations for the Roadster.
Customers can reserve the car with an initial payment of US$5,000 (around Rp90 million), followed by a further US$45,000 (around Rp811 million) ten days later for the base model.
Customers seeking the “Thrust” version, with its suction system and acceleration thrusters, must pay an additional US$245,000 (around Rp4.4 billion) within ten days of placing their reservation.
The “Rocket” version, equipped with a full flight system, is available by invitation only.