From Car and Driver · Sebastian Blanco · · 1m 10s
Tesla Roadster Thrusters Explained
How Tesla's Roadster uses air thrusters to fly, flip, and suck.
In brief
How Tesla's Roadster uses air thrusters to fly, flip, and suck. Tesla Roadster uses SpaceX thrusters and air suction to perform gravity-defying stunts without ramps. Originally reported by Car and Driver.
How the Roadster Lifts Off
The Tesla Roadster uses cold-gas thrusters from SpaceX and 250 kilos of compressed air to lift off.
Rocket Trim Stunt Details
The Rocket Roadster performed a kickflip jump over five vehicles including a Semi without a ramp.
Thrust System Mechanics
The system uses 10 nozzles that mimic rocket thrusters for precise micro-adjustments in air flow.
Air Tank Capacity
The Rocket Roadster uses two carbon overlay pressure vessels with 600-liter capacity holding 250 kilos of air.
Sucker Mode Function
The fan system provides enough suction to sit on upside-down roads even at standstill.
Downforce Performance
The system delivers up to 2 g’s of downforce at 200 mph for cornering and traction.
Engine Specifications
The Roadster weighs 3700 pounds with two electric motors producing up to 1500 horsepower.
Real-World Application
The suction system helps the Roadster accelerate from zero to 60 mph in under one second.
The essence
Tesla Roadster uses SpaceX thrusters and air suction to perform gravity-defying stunts without ramps.
