Tesla Roadster flies with mid-air flips and rocket landing in Texas demo

Tesla unveiled its new Roadster sports car on Friday with a flying demonstration featuring mid-air flips and a rocket-style landing, using SpaceX technology. The event showcased the vehicle's aerial capabilities to invited guests. The prototype ascended a ramp, flipped upside down, and used thrusters to land vertically like a spacecraft. It then performed jumps and somersaults over Tesla vehicles. The demonstration occurred at a SpaceX rocket test facility near Waco, Texas, and was livestreamed, following years of anticipation from Elon Musk. The flying version, called the Rocket package, is invitation-only and not street-legal. Production is not expected before 2028. Tesla shares rose up to 4.9% pre-market, though analysts noted the Roadster's high price and limited market likely mean minimal financial impact. The event aims to boost Tesla's image amid declining sales.