Tesla Roadster Cockpit Reveals Jet-Style Controls and $50,000 Deposit

Tesla released a 34-second video on Friday afternoon that details the touchscreen interface for its upcoming next-generation Roadster. The clip provides the first clear look at the vehicle's interior software, which the company states is modeled after fighter jet cockpits. The interface centers on a 3D wireframe of the car rather than a traditional map, a layout distinct from other models in Tesla's current lineup.

The demonstration shows users tapping digital parts of the vehicle to adjust settings. Controls for the rear wing include options for low drag and high downforce positions. A separate charging page features a charge limit bar, while a row of tabs at the bottom of the screen provides access to home, vehicle, listen, climate, and navigate functions. The system also includes a compact music player.

Track Mode dominates the software presentation. The dashboard displays a live circuit map, session lap times, and real-time data for brake and motor temperatures. Drivers can monitor specific pressure and temperature readouts for each individual tire. The setup page allows users to select from Auto, Low Drag, High Downforce, or Custom aero modes. Additional controls permit adjustments to aero balance and brake balance, along with switches to disable stability and traction control.

A status bar at the bottom of the Track Mode screen displays the text Thruster 5,500 PSI alongside a Boost Ready indicator. This software feature connects to the hardware Tesla showcased near Waco, Texas, on October 15. The Thrust and Rocket versions of the car utilize cold gas thrusters supplied by carbon overwrapped pressure vessels.

Previous breakdowns of the three Roadster configurations indicate that the Thrust and Rocket models achieve 0 to 60 mph times of under 0.9 seconds and under 0.59 seconds, respectively. The base Performance model relies on a fan and ground sealing system for grip. The aero settings visible in the video align with the active wings and suction setup detailed in prior analyses of the vehicle's downforce generation.

Tesla's official page lists two smaller forward displays that accompany the main touchscreen. The company has not clarified whether Track Mode telemetry features will appear in other models, such as the Model 3 Performance. Elon Musk stated at a recent event that production is scheduled to start in 2028. The flagship Rocket version is not yet approved for public road use.

Reservations for the vehicle are open with a payment of $50,000. The Thrust model is listed as a limited release, while the Rocket version is available on an invite-only basis. The Roadster will be displayed in the lobby of the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles from October 24 to 27. Sawyer Merritt noted that this event marks the first time the general public can view the car up close.