Tesla Unveils Redesigned Roadster with Rocket Thrusters, Targeting 2028 Production

Tesla, Inc. (NASDAQ:TSLA) has unveiled a redesigned Roadster equipped with rocket-style thrusters, setting a target to begin production in 2028. Developed alongside Space Exploration Technologies Corp (NASDAQ:SPCX), the two-seater vehicle demonstrated built-in thrusters during a test in McGregor, Texas, by jumping over a line of cars. Tesla vehicle engineering chief Lars Moravy stated that the vehicle can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under one second and reach speeds over 230 mph, though its range of more than 300 miles is lower than earlier estimates. Reservations require a $50,000 deposit for the Performance version and $250,000 for the Thrust model.

Although the showcase generated attention and an initial premarket share increase of 5.25%, market analysts note that the vehicle serves primarily as a demonstration of engineering capability rather than a immediate financial growth driver. Executive leadership previously acknowledged that the car would not significantly impact overall revenue. The unveiling comes as the electric vehicle maker shifts its focus toward robotics and autonomous technology, including ending Model S and Model X sales this year to reallocate manufacturing capacity toward Optimus robots.

Investors are now looking ahead to October 21, when Tesla is scheduled to report its third-quarter financial results. The upcoming report is expected to provide broader insight into how the company's operational transition toward self-driving vehicles and robotics is affecting its underlying financial trajectory.