Tesla CEO Elon Musk has claimed that the company’s second-generation Roadster could reach speeds exceeding 612 km/h with the help of SpaceX-developed thrusters, following the electric supercar’s unveiling in Texas earlier this week.
Musk suggested the vehicle could exceed Mach 0.5, roughly half the speed of sound. The figure is considerably higher than the previously indicated top speed of more than 370 km/h for the Roadster’s Thrust and Rocket variants.
@JesseBWatters I think we can reach a peak speed of >0.5 Mach or ~400 mph
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) October 17, 2026
How much will the new Tesla Roadster cost?
Tesla has not announced final retail prices for the redesigned Roadster, although the company previously indicated a starting price of approximately $200,000.
The company is accepting reservations for different configurations, with deposits varying considerably depending on the version.
The entry-level Performance model requires a $50,000 reservation deposit, consisting of an initial $5,000 payment followed by $45,000 within 10 days.
The more powerful Thrust variant requires a $250,000 deposit, while the Rocket version, featuring additional aerospace technology, will be available by invitation only.
SpaceX technology and production plans
Unlike conventional rocket engines, the Roadster’s propulsion system uses compressed atmospheric air rather than combustible rocket fuel.
According to the specifications, the prototype incorporates a 600-litre compressed-air tank and multiple thrusters that can generate additional propulsion and control the vehicle’s orientation.
Musk said the proposed extreme-speed capability would also rely on rear-mounted thrusters, aerodynamic control surfaces and powerful fans designed to generate additional downforce.
The technology could allow the Roadster to perform manoeuvres beyond those possible with conventional electric sports cars, although regulatory restrictions may prevent some features from being used on public roads.
Tesla plans to begin production in 2028 at its Gigafactory in Texas, several years later than originally promised.
The second-generation Roadster was first announced in 2017, with production initially expected in 2020. Its launch has since been postponed repeatedly.
The latest unveiling introduced three versions: Performance, Thrust and Rocket. While the first two are intended to offer different levels of performance, the Rocket variant is a more specialised demonstration of SpaceX technology.
