Roadster Cockpit Reveal Shows Thruster Controls

Tesla has provided the automotive world with the most detailed glimpse yet into the digital cockpit of its upcoming next generation Roadster. The reveal came via a thirty four second video clip shared on the social platform X on Friday afternoon, offering a direct look at how the car's software interacts with its high performance hardware.

The company described the design philosophy with a caption stating that the interface was inspired by fighter jet cockpits and designed around the pilot. The video opens with a black background featuring red graphics and a three dimensional wireframe of the vehicle positioned next to its squared off yoke control. Users can tap various parts of the digital model to access specific functions, including controls for the rear wing positions and a charging page that displays a charge limit bar and a compact music player.

The primary focus of the demonstration is the Track Mode interface. This screen presents a live map of the racing circuit alongside a list of session lap times. It also provides critical real time data such as brake and motor temperatures, as well as individual pressure and temperature readings for each tire. A dedicated setup page allows drivers to select from Auto, Low Drag, High Downforce, or Custom aero modes, while also adjusting aero and brake balances or disabling stability and traction control.

A notable feature highlighted in the video is a status bar along the bottom of the screen. This bar displays the text Thruster 5,500 PSI next to a Boost Ready indicator. This software element directly connects to the hardware Tesla unveiled near Waco, Texas, on October 15. The Thrust and Rocket variants utilize cold gas thrusters powered by carbon overwrapped pressure vessels, with the company listing 0 to 60 mph acceleration times of under 0.9 seconds and under 0.59 seconds for these respective models.

The base Performance model operates differently, relying on a fan and ground sealing system to generate grip. The aero settings visible on the screen align with the active wings and suction setup that Tesla previously detailed in its explanation of how the Roadster generates downforce. This marks a significant shift from the rest of Tesla's current lineup, as the Roadster places the car itself at the center of the home page rather than a standard map view. The company also notes that two smaller forward displays will accompany the main touchscreen in the final build.

Reactions to the new interface have focused on its complexity and the specific data points required for such a high powered vehicle. The layout suggests a driver focused experience that prioritizes immediate access to performance metrics over general navigation features. However, it remains unclear if any of this advanced telemetry will be adapted for other models in the Tesla fleet, such as the Model 3 Performance, in the near future.

The current display is not necessarily final, as the interface could undergo further changes before deliveries begin. Elon Musk stated at the recent event that production of the Roadster is scheduled to start in 2028. It is worth noting that Tesla specifies the flagship Rocket version is not approved for public road use. Reservations are currently open with a payment of fifty thousand dollars, with the Thrust model listed as a limited release and the Rocket version available by invite only.

For those eager to see the physical vehicle, a public viewing is available this weekend. The Roadster will be displayed in the lobby of the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles from October 24 through October 27. According to Sawyer Merritt, this event marks the first time the general public will have the opportunity to view the car up close since its initial hardware reveal.