Key Takeaways
- Tesla Roadster is coming to India with air thrusters
- Booking amount is Rs. 5 lakhs for Performance trim and Thrust package
- Rocket package is available through invite-only programme
What is the new Tesla Roadster?
Tesla has showcased a pre-production version of its upcoming Roadster electric sports car, demonstrating airborne manoeuvres using cold-air thrusters developed with technology from SpaceX.
The vehicle is planned to be offered in three configurations, with the more advanced versions featuring additional thruster hardware.
Who is affected by the new Roadster configurations?
The new Roadster will be available in a two-seat Performance configuration, which will serve as the base for two optional packages called Thrust and Rocket.
The Thrust package adds rear-mounted air thrusters, while the Rocket package features a more extensive setup with 10 thrusters.
By the numbers
- 2028: Planned production start year
- 0-100 km/hr in under 1 second: Claimed acceleration time
- Rs. 5 lakhs: Booking amount for the Performance trim and Thrust package in India
- 10 thrusters: Featured in the Rocket package
- 2G of grip: Generated by the underbody suction fan on the Performance version
How do the Roadster's air thrusters work?
Unlike conventional rocket propulsion systems that burn propellant, the Roadster's demonstrated thrusters use pressurised cold air expelled through nozzles to generate thrust.
According to the information released, the system can briefly lift the vehicle off the ground and influence its movement in the air.
What does this mean for the Indian market?
Bookings for the Performance trim and Thrust package are open in India, with a booking amount of Rs. 5 lakhs.
The Rocket package is being offered through an invite-only programme.
Bengaluru and other Indian cities' roads to witness the new Roadster?
Tesla has not provided a detailed India delivery schedule in the available information.
With production planned for 2028, pricing, final specifications and the availability of the different configurations remain key details to be confirmed.
Key implications for Indian buyers
Indian buyers can expect a unique driving experience with the new Roadster, thanks to its air-thruster technology.
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However, the high booking amount and limited availability of the Rocket package may make it less accessible to some buyers.
What to watch next
Tesla is expected to release more information about the new Roadster in the coming months, including final production specifications and pricing.
Indian buyers can also expect to see the new Roadster on the roads of Bengaluru and other cities in the near future.
Expert Perspective on the New Roadster
Experts in the automotive industry are eagerly waiting to see how the new Roadster will perform in the real world, and how the air-thruster technology will be received by Indian buyers.
The new Roadster's unique features and technology are expected to set a new standard for electric sports cars in India.
Comparison with Other Electric Sports Cars
The new Roadster will be competing with other electric sports cars in the Indian market, such as the Porsche Taycan and the Audi e-tron GT.
However, the Roadster's air-thruster technology and unique design are expected to give it an edge over its competitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the booking amount for the Tesla Roadster in India?
The booking amount is Rs. 5 lakhs for the Performance trim and Thrust package.
Is the Rocket package available for booking in India?
No, the Rocket package is available through an invite-only programme.
When is the Tesla Roadster expected to be launched in India?
The launch date has not been confirmed, but production is planned to start in 2028.
