Tesla has at last put the lid on the production version of its second-generation Roadster. It comes after nine years since the original prototype made such an impression on the world.
In more than a mere step forward for the electric sports car, this is a wholesale redefinition of the performance vehicle. According to Tesla, the new Roadster will do 0-60 in less than 1.0 seconds, a number that would be physically impossible were it not for a road-legal production car.
What makes the performance possible is an unheralded level of aerospace technology. The production model has four rear thrusters running on SpaceX tech. Tesla says the machine is road-ready with active flight capabilities, so these are no vanity pieces. There is also a multi-mode suction system of some sophistication to put downforce where it is needed most. With active aerodynamics to keep the Roadster stuck to the ground at high speed, the result is a next-level performer for the track as well as everyday driving.
The numbers make for good headlines but Tesla is not giving up all the technical particulars. No official word has come out on horsepower, battery size, range or curb weight. Pricing has not been set either, so those looking to buy what is in effect a rocket ship on wheels can only guess at the tab. One thing is certain: production is on the books to start in 2028.
A two-seater by design, the Roadster is meant to push the envelope of EV engineering. In putting together a car that straddles automotive performance and aerospace propulsion, Tesla is making room for a new breed of “flying” sports car. With the 2028 release date in view, the industry has little doubt that Tesla’s long-running project is done with being a prototype and is prepared to put some science fiction on the asphalt.
