New Tesla Roadster on Display at Los Angeles Petersen Museum
The exhibit features the Thrust Prototype, capable of 0-60 mph in under 0.9 seconds, and runs through Tuesday.
Tesla has placed its new Roadster on public display at the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles, marking the first opportunity for consumers to view the vehicle since its recent unveiling in Texas.
What Happened
The exhibit, which opened on October 24 and runs through October 27, is located in the museum's Main Lobby. The vehicle on display is identified by the Petersen as the 2028 Tesla Roadster Thrust Prototype. This specific trim features a 200-liter cold-gas thruster system with four rear nozzles, enabling a 0-60 mph time of under 0.9 seconds; Tesla reported a precise time of 0.81 seconds during the unveiling. The prototype is roped off, allowing visitors to view and photograph the car but not to enter it. Notably, this display unit lacks side mirrors, although Tesla has stated that U.S. production models will include them.
Why It Matters
The presence of the Thrust Prototype at a public museum signals Tesla's continued promotional efforts for the Roadster ahead of its planned 2028 production start. The Thrust trim is significant for original Founders Series reservation holders, as their deposits were converted to this specific configuration. With reservation deposits currently set at $50,000 for the Performance trim and $250,000 for the Thrust trim, the public display allows prospective buyers to examine the hardware, including the active aero and suction systems described by the museum as creating additional downforce, before the vehicle reaches showrooms or production lines.
The Bottom Line
Tesla’s Roadster Thrust Prototype is available for viewing at the Petersen Automotive Museum through Tuesday, October 27, offering a rare public look at the vehicle slated for 2028 production.
