Elon Musk revealed plans for a Tesla Roadster prototype demo before the end of 2025 during an appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience. He described the vehicle as featuring 'crazy technology' that might blur the line between car and aircraft. The comments revive interest in the long-delayed second-generation Roadster, first announced in 2017.
Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, appeared on The Joe Rogan Experience podcast, where he discussed the next-generation Tesla Roadster. The episode, recorded in the United States, touched on the vehicle's development around the 38-minute mark. Musk stated, "We're getting close to demonstrating the prototype," and promised the demo would be "unforgettable — whether it's good or bad." He hinted at innovative features, saying, "This is some crazy, crazy technology," and questioned, "Is it even a car? I'm not sure. It looks like a car, but it's crazier than anything James Bond."
Musk alluded to flying capabilities without specifics. Referencing billionaire Peter Thiel, he noted, "My friend Peter Thiel once reflected that the future was supposed to have flying cars, but we don’t have flying cars. I mean, I think if Peter wants a flying car, we should be able to buy one." When Rogan asked about retractable wings or vertical take-off and landing (VTOL), Musk replied, "I can't do the unveil before the unveil," and aimed for a reveal "hopefully before the end of the year."
The Roadster, unveiled in 2017 with promises of 0-60 mph in under two seconds, over 250 mph top speed, and 620-mile range starting at $200,000, was slated for production in 2020. Delays pushed timelines to 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024. In February 2024, Musk targeted 2025 shipping. Early deposits, like OpenAI CEO Sam Altman's $50,000 from 2018, have led to refund requests; Altman recently tweeted difficulties canceling after 7.5 years, prompting Musk's retort alluding to OpenAI disputes.
Musk has teased flying elements since 2017, including a "SpaceX package" with cold-air thrusters for hovering. Speculation points to VTOL or fan systems for lift, though regulatory and technical challenges persist. Tesla's recent 37% profit drop adds context to such ambitious announcements, known for optimistic timelines across Musk's ventures like Hyperloop and the Boring Company.
