Teslas have always been known for their sleek design and impressive speed, but there’s an even sleeker and faster model on the horizon: the revived Tesla Roadster. The original Tesla Roadster was the company’s first car, essentially a Tesla powertrain housed in a Lotus Elise body. However, the new Roadster is a fresh, ground-up design.
First introduced as a concept in 2017, the new Tesla Roadster was initially slated for release in 2020. Although that didn’t happen, anticipation for this stylish and high-performing model remains high.
The concept images of the new Tesla Roadster reveal it to be the most stylish Tesla yet. It features a sleek, aerodynamic two-door coupe design with a low center of gravity, giving it a sporty and contemporary appearance. The new Roadster seats four, an upgrade from the original two-seater, though the two rear seats are expected to be quite compact. The design is more aggressive compared to the previous model and comes equipped with 19-inch wheels.
Inside, the 2023 Tesla Roadster includes several updates compared to earlier Teslas. The car features a brand-new dashboard and center console, along with upgraded materials and amenities like heated seats and a panoramic roof. Unlike some earlier models, this Roadster appears to have a built-in display in the center console instead of a floating one. It may also feature a yoke instead of a traditional steering wheel, although this could be optional. Of course, these design details are subject to change, especially considering the six-year gap since its announcement.
Performance-wise, the Tesla Roadster is set to be a powerhouse. With three electric motors, it can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in just 1.9 seconds and has a top speed of 250 mph, likely to be capped for safety. The car promises a range of 620 miles on a single charge, which, if released now, would make it the longest-range electric vehicle in production.
Another key feature could be Tesla’s Autopilot, the semiautonomous driving system. While not officially confirmed, it’s likely that some form of Autopilot will be available on the Roadster. Typically, basic Autopilot comes standard on most Tesla models, offering adaptive cruise control. More advanced self-driving capabilities, like Tesla’s Full Self-Driving, usually require an additional fee.
Initially expected to release in 2020, the Tesla Roadster has faced numerous delays. A 2023 release date was also anticipated, but that timeline has slipped as well. With Tesla currently prioritizing Cybertruck production, the Roadster’s release remains uncertain. However, many enthusiasts hope it will arrive before any new models are announced.
The base price for the Roadster is set at $200,000, with a special Founder’s Edition priced at $250,000. Specific differences between these versions remain unknown.
By the time the Roadster finally launches, other electric cars might surpass it in speed or range, as numerous companies are planning to unveil their own high-performance electric vehicles. Nonetheless, the Tesla Roadster is poised to be one of the most impressive EVs available, offering an exceptional combination of speed, range, and style.