Tesla put SpaceX thrusters on the new Roadster. But how do they work?
They’re cold-gas thrusters. High-pressure tanks store compressed air. Open a valve, air blasts through a nozzle, and the car gets pushed the opposite way. Think balloon physics—with serious engineering.
No burning rocket fuel. Rear-facing jets add acceleration without relying on tire grip. The Rocket version adds thrusters around the car for upward thrust and rotation.
The catch? Stored air runs out. These are short bursts, not unlimited flight.
And legality? Tesla explicitly says the flying Roadster Rocket version isn’t approved for public roads. For now.