# Tesla Roadster Thrusters Explained

> How Tesla's Roadster uses air thrusters to fly, flip, and suck.
- Title: Tesla Roadster Thrusters Explained · Car and Driver | Shortify
- Summary: 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…
- Keywords: tesla, roadster, spacex, thrusters, air suction, electric car, flying car, flip stunt, downforce, cars, Explained, Car and Driver
- Source: Car and Driver — https://caranddriver.com/news/a74165059/tesla-roadster-thrusters-fan-system-explained
- Author: Sebastian Blanco
- Published: 2026-10-17T00:46:30+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: tesla, roadster, spacex, thrusters, air suction, electric car, flying car, flip stunt, downforce, cars
## 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.
## Key takeaway

Tesla Roadster uses SpaceX thrusters and air suction to perform gravity-defying stunts without ramps.