Roadster Screen Shows Jet Style Data

Tesla released a 34 second video on Friday showing the touchscreen interface for its next generation Roadster. The display mimics a fighter jet cockpit, placing a 3D wireframe of the car at the center of the screen rather than a map. This design choice separates the Roadster interior from the rest of Tesla's current vehicle lineup.

The interface allows users to tap the digital model to access controls for the rear wing. Drivers can select between low drag and high downforce positions. The bottom of the screen features navigation tabs for Home, Vehicle, Listen, Climate, and Navigate. A charging page includes a charge limit bar and a compact music player.

Track Mode occupies a large portion of the demonstration. The dashboard shows a live circuit map and a list of session lap times. It provides real time data for brake and motor temperatures. The system also displays specific pressure and temperature readouts for each individual tire. Drivers can adjust aero balance and brake balance on the setup page.

Users can select Auto, Low Drag, High Downforce, or Custom aero modes. They can also switch off stability and traction control. A status bar at the bottom of the Track Mode screen reads Thruster 5,500 PSI. A Boost Ready indicator appears next to this text. This software feature connects to the cold gas thrusters shown by Tesla near Waco, Texas on October 15.

The Thrust and Rocket versions of the car use carbon overwrapped pressure vessels to supply these thrusters. The Thrust model is listed as a limited release. The Rocket version is available on an invite only basis and is not yet approved for public road use. The base Performance model relies on a fan and ground sealing system for grip instead of thrusters.

Elon Musk stated at a recent event that production is scheduled to start in 2028. Reservations are open with a payment of $50,000. The Rocket version is capable of 0 to 60 mph times of under 0.59 seconds. The Thrust model reaches that speed in under 0.9 seconds. Tesla has not clarified if Track Mode telemetry will appear in other models like the Model 3 Performance.

The Roadster will be displayed in the lobby of the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles from October 24 to 27. Sawyer Merritt said this event marks the first time the general public can view the car up close.