First look: Tesla has introduced a next-generation Roadster that it says can fly, with a single-seat Rocket configuration designed to lift off the ground and maneuver in the air. The Rocket is the most ambitious of three versions, with a claimed zero-to-60 mph time below 0.59 seconds. The engineering pushes the Roadster beyond conventional sports-car performance, though it remains unclear whether owners will be allowed to use its full capabilities.

The Rocket configuration places thrusters around the car's perimeter to provide forward and upward acceleration as well as lateral rotation. All-electric actuators make small adjustments to stabilize the vehicle in flight.

Tesla demonstrated airborne maneuvers Thursday night outside Waco, Texas, near SpaceX's McGregor site. The Roadster climbed a curved ramp until it was upside down, then launched off, flipped and landed on the pavement. It also hovered over a moving lineup that included a Cybercab, Cybertruck, Tesla Semi, Model Y and Model 3.

Musk described the car as a collaboration between Tesla and SpaceX engineers. He said, "This will be the actual car that's on the roads," although Tesla has stated that the Roadster is not approved for public road use. Rocket will be available by invitation only and will not be offered in every region.

The Roadster uses a separate fan system to stay attached to a surface. Together with a ground seal, the fans pull air from beneath the car to create suction. Tesla says that suction can hold the vehicle upside down even when it is stopped, unlike aerodynamic features that rely on the car's movement.

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