Tesla Reveals Roadster Cockpit Interface

Tesla released the most detailed look yet at the interior user interface for its next-generation Roadster on Friday. A 34-second video published to the company’s X account walks through the vehicle's touchscreen controls, emphasizing a design philosophy inspired by fighter jet cockpits.

The footage highlights a distinct departure from Tesla’s standard vehicle layouts. Instead of centering a navigation map on the home screen, the Roadster interface places a 3D wireframe model of the car at the center. This central model allows drivers to interact directly with vehicle functions, such as adjusting the rear wing between low-drag and high-downforce positions. The main display is flanked by two smaller forward-facing screens, a configuration that sets the sports car apart from the rest of the manufacturer’s current lineup.

A significant portion of the demonstration focuses on the dedicated Track Mode. This environment provides a live circuit map, session lap times, and real-time telemetry for brake and motor temperatures. Drivers can also monitor tire pressure and temperature for each wheel. The setup menu offers extensive customization, allowing users to select from auto, low-drag, high-downforce, or custom aero modes. Additionally, the interface permits adjustments to aero and brake balance, as well as the ability to disable stability and traction control systems.

The software interface directly reflects the vehicle's unique hardware capabilities. A status bar at the bottom of the screen displays “Thruster · 5,500 PSI” alongside a “Boost Ready” indicator. This digital readout corresponds to the cold gas thrusters and carbon-overwrapped pressure vessels previously shown by the company near Waco, Texas, on October 15. Tesla lists 0 to 60 mph acceleration times of under 0.9 seconds for the Thrust version and under 0.59 seconds for the top-tier Rocket model.

The base Performance variant, which lacks the rocket propulsion, relies on a fan and ground sealing system for grip. The aero settings visible in the video align with this active wing and suction setup. While the Track Mode telemetry is currently exclusive to the Roadster, the company has not confirmed whether these features will eventually migrate to other models, such as the Model 3 Performance.

Production of the Roadster is scheduled to begin in 2028. The company notes that the interface may undergo further changes before deliveries commence. Reservations are currently open for a $50,000 payment. The Thrust version is described as a limited release, while the Rocket edition, which is not yet approved for public road use, is available on an invite-only basis.

Potential buyers will have the first opportunity to view the vehicle in person later this week. The Roadster is set to be displayed in the lobby of the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles from October 24 to October 27. This exhibition marks the first time the public will be able to inspect the car up close.