Tesla's Flying Roadster Delays to 2028 as Rivals Offer Immediate EV Alternatives

Key points

• Tesla's second-generation Roadster demo featured brief flight via SpaceX thrusters and a 0.8-second 0-60 mph acceleration, but the flying 'Rocket' package is not road-legal and limited to invited customers.
• Production of the Roadster is scheduled for 2028, nearly a decade after its 2017 announcement, leading to customer complaints and refund requests from early depositors.
• Alef Aeronautics released a video of its flying car hovering over Tesla vehicles, using distributed electric propulsion rather than thrusters, and teased Tesla's entry into the flying car market.
• McMurtry began production of a $1.36 million electric fan car, while GM revealed an electric drive 3500 dually, offering tangible alternatives to Tesla's delayed concepts.
• Analysts note the Roadster is an attention-getter rather than a revenue driver, with Tesla shares falling 2% after the demo despite initial excitement.

Background

Tesla has faced criticism for delaying the Roadster since 2017, with some customers, including OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, requesting refunds. The company has also discontinued the Model S and X, shifting focus to AI and robotics. Recent speculation suggests a potential Tesla-SpaceX merger, with prediction markets assigning over 50% odds to a combination by early 2027.

How outlets are covering it

Electrek emphasizes that competitors like Alef, McMurtry, and GM offer immediate, purchasable EVs with advanced capabilities, contrasting with Tesla's delayed Roadster. USA Today highlights Alef Aeronautics' playful jab at Tesla, noting its use of distributed electric propulsion versus Tesla's thrusters. The Los Angeles Times focuses on the Roadster's long delay, customer dissatisfaction, and the reality that the flying version is not road-legal, while questioning its impact on Tesla's faltering sales.

Why it matters

The Roadster's delay underscores Tesla's shifting priorities toward AI and robotics, while competitors capitalize on the gap by offering immediate, high-performance EVs. This could influence consumer choices and Tesla's market position, especially as sales of mainstream models decline.

What to watch

Tesla plans to begin Roadster production in 2028, with the 'Performance' version available for regular roads. Alef Aeronautics continues developing its flying car, and GM will likely expand its electric truck lineup. Analysts will monitor Tesla's stock performance and potential Tesla-SpaceX merger developments.