# Tesla Shares Move Following Demonstration of Redesigned Roadster Prototype

- URL: https://stocks.freetheai.org/news/tesla-shares-move-following-demonstration-of-redesigned-roadster-prototype-a1bfd5
- Published: 2026-10-16T12:24:55Z
- Category: company_news; sentiment: mixed; impact: medium
- Symbols: [NASDAQ:TSLA](https://stocks.freetheai.org/symbols/NASDAQ-TSLA)
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Tesla, Inc. (NASDAQ:TSLA) displayed an updated sports car concept during a demonstration in McGregor, Texas. The test vehicle executed mid-air flips, stabilized itself with propulsion nozzles, jumped over parked cars, and traversed upside-down surfaces using a vacuum grip system. Company equity rose roughly 5% in Friday trading, while current market data shows the stock at $362.40 USD, down 1.29% on the day.

The automaker published metrics for the sports car, claiming zero-to-60 mph acceleration between 0.59 and 0.81 seconds based on configuration. Speeds reach beyond 230 mph, with driving range spanning over 300 miles. Three distinct model options require reservation fees starting at $50,000 for the Performance tier and reaching $250,000 for the Thrust variant. An invite-only, single-occupant Rocket edition includes an enlarged thruster assembly but lacks street-legal clearance.

Manufacturing is slated for 2028, though final consumer pricing has not been disclosed. Key focus areas going forward include securing government permissions for street usage given the vehicle's flight-like propulsion features.

## Key points

- Tesla, Inc. (NASDAQ:TSLA) demonstrated a prototype Roadster with flight thrusters and inverted driving capabilities in Texas.
- Tesla aims to launch production in 2028, but has not released final pricing for the vehicle.
- Claimed performance specs include 0-60 mph in 0.59-0.81 seconds, speeds over 230 mph, and range above 300 miles.
- Reservation fees span from $50,000 to $250,000 across three main product variants.
- Thruster-based airborne features must clear unresolved regulatory hurdles before public road use is permitted.

## Questions and answers

### When is Tesla planning to start production on the new Roadster?

Tesla targets 2028 to commence manufacturing for the sports car, though final retail costs remain unannounced.

### What are the reservation costs for the Tesla Roadster prototype?

Upfront deposits start at $50,000 for the Performance variant and go up to $250,000 for the Thrust edition. An invite-only Rocket build is also planned.

### Is the new Tesla Roadster legally allowed on public roads?

Standard flight-related thruster capabilities face outstanding regulatory hurdles for street permission, while the invite-only Rocket build is strictly not street legal.