Tesla Roadster Display: Pilot-First Interface Revealed

Future owners of the next generation Tesla Roadster have received their most detailed look yet at the digital cockpit. The company released a 34-second video on X on Friday afternoon, showcasing the touchscreen interface. The caption accompanying the clip described the design as inspired by fighter jet cockpits and built around the pilot. This release provides a clear view of how drivers will interact with the car's advanced systems before activation of its unique thrusters.

The video begins with a black screen featuring red graphics and a 3D wireframe of the vehicle. This model sits beside the Roadster's squared-off yoke. Tapping specific parts of the model brings up controls for the rear wing, including options for low drag and high downforce positions. The screen also displays a charging page with a charge limit bar and a small music player. A row of tabs along the bottom of the screen includes Home, Vehicle, Listen, Climate, and Navigate.

The majority of the footage focuses on Track Mode. The dashboard presents a live circuit map, a list of session lap times, and readings for brake and motor temperatures. It also shows pressure and temperature data for each tire. A setup page allows the driver to select Auto, Low Drag, High Downforce, or Custom aero modes. Users can adjust aero balance and brake balance, and they can switch off stability and traction control. A status bar at the bottom of the screen reads “Thruster · 5,500 PSI” next to a “Boost Ready” indicator.

This gauge connects the software to the hardware Tesla displayed near Waco, Texas on October 15. The Thrust and Rocket versions utilize cold gas thrusters fed by carbon overwrapped pressure vessels. Tesla lists 0 to 60 mph times of under 0.9 seconds for the Thrust model and under 0.59 seconds for the Rocket. The base Performance car relies on a fan and ground sealing system for grip. The aero settings on the screen align with the active wings and suction setup previously discussed in analyses of the Roadster's downforce generation.

The Roadster layout marks a significant departure from the rest of Tesla's lineup. Instead of a map-centered screen, the Roadster places the car itself at the center of the home page. Tesla's Roadster page lists two smaller forward displays alongside the main touchscreen. The company has not stated whether any of the Track Mode telemetry will appear in the Model 3 Performance or other vehicles.

The interface may still change before deliveries begin. Elon Musk stated at the event that Roadster production will start in 2028. Tesla notes that the flagship Rocket version is not approved for public road use. Reservations are open with a $50,000 payment. The Thrust version is listed as a limited release, while the Rocket is invite only.

Those who wish to see the car in person have their first opportunity this weekend. The Roadster will be on display in the lobby of the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles from October 24 to 27. Sawyer Merritt confirmed this timeline, marking the first time the public can view the vehicle up close.