Tesla’s flying Roadster turns engineering spectacle into a weapon in talent wars
A Roadster with aerial tricks
Tesla brought back the Roadster on Thursday, unveiling its second generation. Musk described the prototype as capable of “crazy gymnastics,” including jumping off the ground and rotating in the air.
Tesla claims the prototype can go from zero to 60 mph in 0.8 seconds. The automaker said the production version will be faster still.
A spectacle with a purpose
Tesla’s value is closer to that of a technology company than a conventional automaker. Musk has also treated eye-catching product presentations as opportunities to recruit talent. The Roadster reveal follows that approach, using the prospect of a flying car to draw interest from technology workers. The event was also described as an engineering showcase with little commercial value beyond challenging traditional carmakers.
Questions about the road ahead
The car’s future remains uncertain. Musk said he does not know whether Tesla will be able to bring it to American roads. The Roadster may not need to sell in large numbers to benefit Tesla. Its role could instead be to stand out as a showcase for the company’s technology.
Key points
- Musk said the Roadster can hop off the ground and spin in the air.
- Tesla claims the prototype reaches 60 mph from a standstill in 0.8 seconds.
- The reveal may help Tesla attract technology workers as well as showcase engineering.
- Musk said he does not know if the car can reach American roads.