SAN FRANCISCO—Tesla CEO Elon Musk has ignited fresh speculation about the future of transportation, hinting that the company may unveil a prototype of a “flying car” before the end of 2025. Appearing on a recent episode of The Joe Rogan Experience podcast, Musk cryptically confirmed that a demonstration of the long-awaited, next-generation Tesla Roadster is imminent, but promised the reveal would be far more than a typical sports car launch.

When questioned about the status of the new Roadster, first unveiled in 2017 with delayed production, Musk suggested the vehicle is nearing its prototype demonstration. “We're getting close to demonstrating the prototype,” he stated, adding, “One thing I can guarantee is that this product demo will be unforgettable.”

The conversation quickly steered into science fiction territory when Musk referenced his friend, Peter Thiel, who once lamented the lack of flying cars in the modern world. Musk remarked, “I think if Peter wants a flying car, we should be able to buy one,” strongly implying that the new vehicle—which he suggested might not even be classified as a traditional "car"—will possess vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) capabilities.

Musk refused to confirm specifics, such as whether the vehicle would feature retractable wings, joking that he “can’t do the unveil before the unveil.” He did, however, promise the product incorporates “crazy, crazy technology,” which he claimed is "crazier than anything James Bond" has driven, fueling speculation that this is more than just a car. Public interest has been high, especially since Musk previously hinted at a "SpaceX package" for the Roadster that would use cold-air thrusters for enhanced performance, possibly including a brief hovering ability.

Regarding the timeline, Musk expressed hope that the prototype demonstration would take place "before the end of the year, hopefully in two months."

However, industry watchers are quick to note Musk's history of setting ambitious and often delayed timelines. Tech media outlets point out that production for the new Roadster has been pushed back repeatedly since its original 2020 target. Similarly, the first launch of SpaceX’s Falcon Heavy rocket occurred five years later than originally predicted by the CEO in 2011. The media’s caution is well-founded, suggesting that an "unforgettable" prototype reveal does not guarantee a swift production-ready vehicle, as regulatory and safety hurdles for flying personal vehicles remain significant.

Despite the skepticism, Musk's tease has successfully captured global attention, once again positioning Tesla at the forefront of futuristic innovation. The demonstration, if it occurs in 2025, is set to be one of the year’s most anticipated technology events.