Tesla Opens Roadster Reservations at $50,000 Ahead of 2028 Launch

Tesla has opened reservations for its next generation Roadster with a $50,000 deposit, setting a production start date for 2028. The company released this information alongside a new software interface designed to manage the vehicle's high performance hardware. The move formalizes the pre order phase for the three distinct model variants: Performance, Thrust, and Rocket.

The Roadster has been in development for years, with hardware components unveiled near Waco, Texas, in October. The Thrust and Rocket versions utilize cold gas thrusters housed in carbon overwrapped pressure vessels. Tesla previously detailed that these configurations allow for 0 to 60 mph acceleration times of under 0.9 seconds and under 0.59 seconds, respectively. The base Performance model uses a different system involving a fan and ground sealing for traction.

On Friday, Tesla shared a 34 second video on X showing the vehicle's touchscreen experience. The interface places a 3D wireframe of the car at the center of the display rather than a map. Users can access rear wing settings for low drag or high downforce, manage charging limits, and control climate and audio through a bottom navigation bar. A dedicated Track Mode provides a live circuit map, lap times, and individual tire pressure and temperature readouts.

A key element of the Track Mode display is a status bar indicating a Thruster pressure of 5,500 PSI and a Boost Ready status. This software feature connects directly to the hardware showcased in Texas. Drivers can adjust aero balance, brake balance, and switch off stability and traction controls. The company stated the design is inspired by fighter jet cockpits and built around the pilot's perspective.

The Roadster is scheduled for display in the lobby of the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles from October 24 to 27. Sawyer Merritt noted this will be the first opportunity for the general public to view the car in person. Tesla has indicated that the Rocket version is not yet approved for public road use. The Thrust model is listed as a limited release, while the Rocket is available on an invite only basis.

Elon Musk confirmed at a recent event that production is on track for 2028. The company has not clarified if Track Mode telemetry features will appear on other models like the Model 3 Performance. The interior layout marks a departure from Tesla's current lineup by centering the vehicle model rather than a navigation map. Two smaller forward displays accompany the main touchscreen, according to the official vehicle page.