From Dailymail · · 2m
Tesla Unveils Flying Car, Social Media Baffled
Elon Musk's flying Tesla Roadster demo sparks social media confusion over safety and reality.
In brief
Elon Musk's flying Tesla Roadster demo sparks social media confusion over safety and reality. Elon Musk demonstrated a Tesla Roadster that flew, but social media questioned its safety and practicality, joking insurance companies would 's*** themselves'. Originally reported by Dailymail.
Tesla Unveils Flying Car
Elon Musk demonstrated a Tesla Roadster that flew at a SpaceX event in McGregor, Texas.
“Flying cars are real… It's got altitude controls, thrusters and main thrusters in the rear. So it can basically fly like a rocket, it can do rolls, crazy gymnastics.”
Social Media Reaction
Tech blogger Marques Brownlee questioned if the stunt was a prank, joking car insurance companies would 's*** themselves'.
“This is a prank, right?”
Demonstration Details
The Roadster flipped upside down on a ramp, launched into the air, and landed safely in a cloud of smoke.
Performance Claims
Tesla says the Roadster can accelerate from 0, 60 mph in 0.81 seconds and reach 230mph with a top speed of 230mph.
Safety Concerns
Tech fans questioned if flying cars would be safe, joking about coffee and bags getting thrown from the car.
“Imagine pushing the wrong button and your car does this.”
Musk's Past Claims
Musk previously said flying cars would never take off, but now claims they will be available by 2028.
“It's difficult to imagine the flying car becoming a scalable solution.”
Reserve Options
Customers can pay $50,000 for a 'performance' model or $250,000 for a 'thrust' augment with acceleration thrusters.
Tech Elites Respond
Google's Demis Hassabis and CEO Sundar Pichai praised Musk's innovation, comparing it to Blade Runner 2049.
“Huge congrats @elonmusk! Incredible work, Blade Runner cars here we come...”
Public Reaction
Social media users joked about using the flying car to skip traffic or escape heists, with many calling it 'speechless'.
“Absolutely speechless. Never in my wildest dreams did I ever think I'd live to see the day where we had a flying car.”
Musk's 2028 Target
Musk aims to begin production of the flying Tesla Roadster by 2028, though some features may not be legal in all countries.
“I'm not sure it's necessarily legal in all jurisdictions, but there will be such a car that someone can own.”
Historical Context
Musk first teased flying cars in 2018 with a 'SpaceX package' for the Roadster using cold-air thrusters.
“Obviously, I like flying things, but it's difficult to imagine the flying car becoming a scalable solution.”
Safety Warnings
Musk warned that flying cars could cause falling debris, potentially leading to serious injuries.
“If somebody doesn't maintain their flying car, it could drop a hubcap and guillotine you.”
What Happens Next
Tesla will begin selling flying cars by 2028, but social media remains skeptical about their practicality and safety.
What matters most
Elon Musk demonstrated a Tesla Roadster that flew, but social media questioned its safety and practicality, joking insurance companies would 's*** themselves'.
