Musk targets 600 km/h for Tesla Roadster
Tesla chief Elon Musk has set a top-speed target for the new Roadster of half the speed of sound, or approximately 600 km/h. Achieving that could put the electric supercar in contention for the title of the world’s fastest production passenger car.
At the Roadster’s recent unveiling, Tesla promised a top speed of more than 370 km/h and a 0–96 km/h time of less than one second. Equipped with compressed-air thrusters based on SpaceX technology, the car can also make brief flights and turns in mid-air.
Tesla plans to build a dedicated test track in Texas where future owners could experience the Roadster’s extraordinary capabilities. During the more dangerous manoeuvres, however, electronic systems will control the car.
Production of the Roadster is slated to begin in 2028, but Tesla still does not guarantee delivery or a final price to customers who have pre-ordered the car. The reservation deposit ranges from $50,000 to $250,000, depending on the version.
For now, then, 600 km/h remains Musk’s ambition rather than a proven performance figure.
