The Tesla Roadster, first unveiled in 2017, promises to be a groundbreaking electric supercar, pushing the boundaries of performance and range. While its initial 2020 release date has long passed, anticipation remains high for this highly anticipated vehicle. This article compiles everything we currently know about the Tesla Roadster, from its design and performance to its projected price and potential release date.
Tesla RoadsterAlt: A sleek, red Tesla Roadster is shown in a promotional image, highlighting its sporty design and aerodynamic features.
Design and Interior
The new Roadster is expected to showcase Tesla’s most stylish design yet. Concepts reveal a sleek, aerodynamic two-door coupe with a low center of gravity, giving it a distinctly sporty and modern aesthetic. Unlike its two-seater predecessor, the new Roadster will offer seating for four, although rear passenger space may be limited. The car boasts aggressive styling and 19-inch wheels, further enhancing its sporty appeal.
Inside, the Roadster will receive significant upgrades compared to earlier Tesla models. An all-new dashboard and center console are anticipated, along with premium materials and comfort features like heated seats and a panoramic roof. A noteworthy departure from previous Tesla designs is the inclusion of a built-in center console display, replacing the floating display seen in other models. It’s also speculated that the Roadster might adopt a yoke steering wheel, similar to some other Tesla vehicles, possibly as an optional feature. Given the considerable time elapsed since the initial announcement, it’s reasonable to expect further design refinements before the final production model.
Performance and Range
The Tesla Roadster’s performance figures are nothing short of extraordinary. Powered by three electric motors, it’s projected to achieve a blistering 0-60 mph time of 1.9 seconds and a top speed of 250 mph, although this may be electronically limited for safety. Perhaps even more impressive is the claimed range of 620 miles on a single charge, which, if realized, would make it the longest-range production EV currently available.
Tesla RoadsterAlt: A close-up view of the Tesla Roadster’s rear, showcasing its aerodynamic design, spoiler, and diffuser.
Regarding autonomous driving features, Tesla hasn’t officially confirmed the inclusion of Autopilot in the Roadster. However, given its presence in most other Tesla models, it’s highly likely that some form of Autopilot, whether the basic adaptive cruise control or the more advanced Full Self-Driving capability (currently still under development), will be offered.
Price and Release Date
Originally slated for a 2020 release, the Roadster’s launch has been repeatedly delayed. While a 2023 release was anticipated at one point, that timeframe has also passed. Currently, there’s no official launch date, and speculation abounds. Tesla’s current focus on Cybertruck production further adds to the uncertainty surrounding the Roadster’s timeline.
The base price for the Roadster is estimated at $200,000, with higher trims expected to command even steeper prices. A limited “Founder’s Edition” is also planned, with a price tag of $250,000. Details regarding the specific features differentiating these editions remain undisclosed.
Conclusion
The Tesla Roadster holds immense promise as a game-changing electric supercar. While the prolonged delays are undoubtedly frustrating, the projected performance and range figures are still remarkable. However, the competitive landscape of high-performance EVs is constantly evolving, and by the time the Roadster finally arrives, other contenders may have emerged. Nevertheless, the Roadster is likely to remain a highly desirable vehicle for those seeking unparalleled speed, range, and style in an electric package.
