Tesla CEO Elon Musk stated that owners of the new Tesla Roadster will be able to request the car to perform stunts showcased by Tesla during the launch event, with the vehicle operating autonomously. Musk made these comments in response to tech blogger Robert Scoble on the X platform, and he promised to build a challenging circuit track at Tesla's headquarters in Texas. Scoble had argued that the Roadster driver is not truly driving but operating a computer to command another computer to drive, with steering, braking, and acceleration all controlled electronically.
Musk responded, "Indeed, you can ask the Roadster to automatically perform any of the showcased stunts, as it will have the capability to perceive. We will also build a highly challenging circuit track at the Texas headquarters (even crazier than Hot Wheels), where you can test your Roadster."
During the event on October 15, the car drove along a winding ramp until it flipped, then used air thrusters to fly out and land after flipping. It also hovered over the Cybercab, Cybertruck, Semi, Model Y, and Model 3 while in motion. As mentioned in our detailed analysis of the three Roadster configurations, Musk stated during the event that the car "will automatically expand at any time" to perform maneuvers. Saturday's response added that the car will complete these actions on its own.
Tesla Roadster Will Have the Ability to Perform Stunts Automatically
Tesla has described some of the hardware that enables this feature. The Roadster uses an electronic steering system and is equipped with a yoke steering wheel, while its air thrusters rely on electric actuators for minor flight adjustments. The fan system at the bottom of the car creates enough suction, and Tesla states that this design is sufficient to keep the car stable during flips, a design we discussed when analyzing the Roadster's fan system and thrusters. Musk did not disclose when the automated stunt feature will be released, how it will specifically operate, or what he meant by "perception capability."
He also did not provide details on the size, location, or opening date of the Texas track. Production is scheduled to take place at Giga Texas in 2027 or 2028, and Tesla indicated that the car has not yet received approval for public road use. The Rocket version, designed for flight, is limited to invited guests.
The comment came a week after Musk previewed the event, claiming it would be a captivating occasion. Tesla is set to announce its third-quarter financial report on October 21, with shareholders able to submit questions and vote via the Say platform, with a deadline of October 20 at 4 PM (EDT). Questions regarding the automated Roadster stunts and the Texas track will be a quick way to obtain specific information from management.