1. Overview

The original Tesla Roadster, a crucial player in Tesla’s early days, laid the groundwork for the electric car revolution. Elon Musk’s December 2016 tweet teased a second-gen Roadster, promising greatness but admitting it was “some years away.” Fast forward to November 2017, and the prototype, designed by Franz von Holzhausen, stole the spotlight at the Tesla Semi event. The 2017 unveiling promised a supercar experience with two rear seats, extended range, and enhanced performance, a true evolution. Elon Musk, ever the showman, presented the Roadster as a gasoline car crusher, offering test rides to emphasize its prowess. Originally slated for 2020 with a $200,000 starting price, production delays, announced by Musk in January 2021, shifted the goalposts to 2024, showcasing the challenges in bringing a cutting-edge, tri-motor, all-wheel-drive supercar with 2-door coupe styling to market.

(You can also check our articles on : Model 3, Model Y, Model S, Model X )

2. Motor, Power, and Performance

The upcoming Tesla Roadster is set to join the lineup, bringing unprecedented performance to the electric car market. Unveiled in November 2017, the Roadster concept made bold promises with mind-boggling performance figures: a jaw-dropping 1.9-second 0-60 mph time, a top speed surpassing 250 mph, and a quarter-mile sprint in just 8.8 seconds. Elon Musk hinted at standard all-wheel drive, a feature consistent with Tesla’s proven electric vehicle technology. As anticipation builds for the production version, the Roadster looks poised to redefine the boundaries of electric performance.

3. Range, Charging, and Battery

The claimed 200-kWh battery boasts an impressive 620-mile range, but achieving that figure seems plausible only under minimal usage conditions. Engaging in some spirited laps on the track is sure to significantly reduce the estimated range, as the demands of high-performance driving tend to impact overall efficiency.

4. Design, Styling, Technology, and features

The second-generation Tesla Roadster, currently in concept form, represents a paradigm shift in the electric supercar landscape. A brainchild of Franz von Holzhausen, Tesla’s chief designer, this 2+2 coupe embodies a blend of performance and aerodynamic excellence. While the concept design is ambitious, it’s crucial to note that substantial changes may occur during development. The interior strives for a balance, accommodating four seats while pursuing supercar performance records. However, the rear seats, albeit present in a 2+2 arrangement, may not be the ideal spot for adults due to the car’s sleek, angled roofline. A unique feature is the lightweight, removable Glass Roof, storable in the trunk, providing an open-air, convertible driving experience. On the tech front, expectations hint at the absence of Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, or Amazon Alexa compatibility, but the promise of onboard Wi-Fi hotspot, Spotify integration, and entertainment apps like Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube adds a modern touch to this electrifying supercar concept.

5. Pros and Cons of Tesla Roadster

The Tesla roadster will definitely be one of the most interesting supercars on the roads, but as with any technology there will always be some benefits and some drawbacks. So let’s summarize some of them here:

Pros:

1. Performance: Anticipated to establish new benchmarks in EV performance, the Roadster boasts three electric motors, propelling it from 0-60 mph in an astounding 1.9 seconds and reaching 0-60 mph in just 1.9 seconds. With a top speed exceeding 250 mph, it stands among the fastest cars globally, not just within the EV category.
2. Range: Setting a new standard in EV range, the Roadster claims an impressive 620 miles on a full charge, thanks to its sizable 200-kWh battery. This range surpasses most current EVs, promising extended driving without the need for frequent charging.
3. Design: The Roadster’s sleek and modern design features a sporty, uncluttered exterior. Its standout feature is a removable glass roof, storable in the trunk, offering the luxury of open-air motoring. The minimalist interior includes a button-free dashboard and a floating, elongated touchscreen display.

Cons:

1. Price: Priced around $200,000, the Roadster represents a substantial investment, potentially limiting its accessibility to a broader market segment.
2. Interior Space: Despite being a 2+2 seater, the Roadster’s rear seats are notably smaller, likely suitable only for children. This could impact practicality for those requiring more spacious rear seating.
3. Cargo Space: Potential limitations in cargo space, especially if the glass roof is stored in the trunk, and the absence of a visible frunk could affect its utility.
4. Delayed Launch: Initially expected in 2020, the Roadster’s delayed launch, now likely in 2024, might influence buyer decisions amidst increasing competition in the EV market.

6. Tesla roadster price

Initially, Tesla showcased the base model of the Roadster on their website with a price tag of $200,000. However, for the exclusive Founder’s Series, limited to the first 1,000 units, the cost was elevated to $250,000. Strikingly, full payment was mandated for those eager to secure a pre-order of this special edition. Subsequently, Tesla made a notable adjustment by removing the price details from the website, leaving prospective buyers with only the deposit/reservation cost, set at $50,000, for the base model. This pricing strategy introduced a tiered approach, with the Founder’s Series commanding a premium for its exclusivity, while the base model’s deposit served as a more accessible entry point for potential Roadster enthusiasts.

7. Conclusion

In conclusion, the Tesla Roadster emerges as a groundbreaking force in the electric car landscape, promising unparalleled performance and an impressive range. With its three electric motors, it aims to redefine the standards for EV acceleration and top speed. The sleek design, minimalist interior, and innovative features like the removable glass roof add a touch of luxury and modernity. However, the Roadster isn’t without its challenges, a steep price tag, limited interior and cargo space, and concerns about charging infrastructure and delayed launch. Whether it can truly deliver an emotionally engaging driving experience remains a question. As the automotive world eagerly awaits its arrival, the Roadster, with its mix of groundbreaking technology and potential hurdles, stands as a symbol of Tesla’s relentless pursuit of innovation in the electric vehicle realm.