The next-generation Tesla Roadster best exemplifies the fusion of aerospace and automotive technology. Putting rocket thrusters in a car is not normal by any measure.
In post-reveal interviews, Tesla executives said they currently have 5 Roadster prototypes. There are only 1 or 2 Rocket versions that Tesla used at the unveiling event for jump and landing demonstrations.
The remaining Roadster prototypes are Thrust versions with a ducted fan system for increased downforce and road grip. However, the Rocket version is probably the most talked-about around the globe.
Tesla showcased the new Roadster at last weekend’s Max Power aerospace technology expo and air show at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida (November 7-8).
Interestingly, the side nozzles of the rocket thrusters were clearly spotted for the first time. Tesla showcased two Roadster prototypes at the Max Power event.
The following picture shows the location of two side nozzles. One is at the front under the retractable barge board (behind the front wheel). The 2nd side nozzle is located just behind the rear wheel, under the diffuser. Of course, there are 2 on each side of the car and a total of 10 for jumps and landings.
Although SpaceX conducted the Roadster unveiling event in the open at its McGregor rocket factory, the thruster nozzles weren’t very visible. Invitees were there all day, but Tesla only unveiled the car on stage in the evening.
Despite the car’s white color (Tesla calls it ‘Ano White’), the cold gas thruster nozzles mostly stayed obscured in the dark setting. Tesla also kept the Rocket variant at a distance from the audience, which likely kept the thrusters mostly out of sight.
The Ano White color is also inspired by rockets. SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket is also painted in a similar shade of white. Tesla explains the properties of Ano White as:
Ano White paint brings an aerospace-derived finish w/ UV & cryogenic protection, electrostatic dissipation & corrosion resistance.
The irony is that the Roadster Rocket variant is a very limited, invite-only car that only money can’t buy. Tesla and Elon Musk will choose a very small number of people for the Roadster Rocket with a 100-page (figuratively) safety and usage manual. It will also not be road-legal in the foreseeable future.
Looking at the following image of the side profiles of the new Tesla Roadster and the older Roadster (2017) prototypes, let us know which one you would prefer in the comments box below.
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- Watch the live stream of the Tesla Roadster unveiling event and get live updates (pics and info)
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