tesla’s Sky-High Ambitions: Will Musk Deliver a Flying Car?
Elon Musk has ignited excitement with a recent declaration on the Joe Rogan Experience podcast: a prototype demonstration of a flying vehicle before year’s end. This isn’t a new ambition for Musk, who has discussed air-capable vehicles sence 2014, but this time the promise feels linked to the long-awaited next-generation Tesla Roadster.
The conversation began with questions about the Roadster, promised as 2020. Musk responded that a prototype demonstration was “close,” adding with conviction that the event “will be unforgettable, good or bad.” He then hinted at the possibility of a true “airplane car,” referencing a past conversation with Peter Thiel about the future lacking the flying cars once envisioned. “If Peter wants an airplane car, we have to create it so he can buy it,” Musk stated.
While pressed for details – including speculation about retractable wings – Musk remained tight-lipped, only teasing that the demo “might be the most inspiring product demo in history.” He expressed hope for a year-end demonstration, but cautioned it wasn’t guaranteed.
Musk’s history is filled with aspiring promises, some yet to fully materialize. Projects like the Hyperloop, currently limited to a slow-speed tunnel in Las Vegas, and the unreleased Cybercab demonstrate a pattern of announcing revolutionary concepts well before their realization.
However, Musk revealed the new Roadster will feature “crazy technology” surpassing anything previously announced, describing it as ”like all the James Bond cars combined, and even crazier.” This suggests Tesla is developing a vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) vehicle, more akin to a compact aircraft than a conventional car.
Despite the potential, notable hurdles remain. Safety and certification are major concerns, requiring pilots’ licenses and addressing complex issues like air traffic control and emergency procedures. Musk has yet to disclose any technical specifications regarding the engine, take-off system, or battery technology.
Whether this latest announcement will result in a groundbreaking demonstration or another unfulfilled promise remains to be seen.But if delivered, it could be a truly remarkable technological event, setting the stage for a future where cars take to the skies.
