“Tesla Roadster 2: How Cold-Gas Thrusters Make the 230-MPH EV 'Fly'” — what this page in the network covers. Tesla’s next-generation Roadster, unveiled as a concept in 2017 and now nearing production, promises a staggering 0–60 mph time of 1.9 seconds and a top speed over 250 mph. Central to that performance is an optional 'SpaceX package' featuring cold-gas thrusters. According to Elon Musk, these thrusters—essentially compressed air nozzles mounted at the rear—will 'dramatically improve acceleration, top speed, braking, and cornering.' The system works by expelling highly pressurized air, creating thrust that pushes the car forward or aids in braking and downforce.
Musk has even claimed the car will be able to 'fly short hops,' though that remains unproven. The engineering challenge is significant: storing enough compressed air at high pressure while keeping weight low. Tesla’s solution involves a composite overwrapped pressure vessel, similar to those used in SpaceX rockets. The full version stays on the original page, which this listing opens directly.