Who would oversee a flying car? We asked the DOT.
Summary
Tesla CEO Elon Musk revealed a new version of the Tesla Roadster, calling it a "flying car" that uses high-pressure air tanks to enable flight. It is planned to start production in 2028, but there is no clear agreement yet on which government agency will regulate its safety and operation.Key Facts
- Tesla’s new Roadster model is described as a "flying car" and includes advanced air pressure technology for flight.
- Production of the flying Roadster is scheduled for 2028, about ten years later than originally planned.
- The flying model is not approved for use on public roads; a non-flying Roadster version is available for reservation.
- The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) usually oversees vehicle safety but has not commented on the flying Roadster.
- The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulates aircraft but says the Tesla flying car does not meet its definition of an aircraft.
- A senior Department of Transportation official expressed doubt that the car will actually be able to fly and noted there is no clear regulatory path yet.
- Tesla performed a demonstration where the Roadster launched from a curved ramp and flipped in midair before landing on its wheels.
- Tesla has not publicly stated which regulatory agencies it is working with regarding this flying vehicle.
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