Tesla Shows Roadster Cockpit Interface Ahead of Thruster Activation
The 34-second video details Track Mode telemetry and a 'Thruster · 5,500 PSI' status bar linked to the upcoming hardware.
Tesla has released a 34-second video showcasing the touchscreen interface for its next-generation Roadster, offering the clearest look yet at the cockpit designed around the driver.
What Happened
The video, posted to X on Friday afternoon, demonstrates the vehicle's user interface, which Tesla describes as being "inspired by fighter jet cockpits." The display features a 3D wireframe of the car alongside a squared-off yoke, with controls for the rear wing's low drag and high downforce positions. The interface includes a charging page with a limit bar and a music player, with bottom tabs for Home, Vehicle, Listen, Climate, and Navigate.
A significant portion of the clip focuses on Track Mode, which displays a live circuit map, session lap times, brake and motor temperatures, and individual tire pressure and temperature readouts. A setup page allows drivers to select aero modes (Auto, Low Drag, High Downforce, Custom), adjust aero and brake balance, and disable stability and traction control. Notably, a status bar at the bottom reads "Thruster · 5,500 PSI" next to a "Boost Ready" indicator.
Why It Matters
The on-screen "Thruster" status links the software to the hardware Tesla unveiled near Waco, Texas, on October 15. The Thrust and Rocket versions utilize cold gas thrusters fed by carbon overwrapped pressure vessels, with Tesla listing 0 to 60 mph times of under 0.9 seconds and under 0.59 seconds, respectively. The base Performance model relies on a fan and ground sealing system for grip, with the screen's aero settings corresponding to these active wings and suction setups. This interface marks a departure from the rest of Tesla's lineup, which typically centers a map on the home screen; the Roadster centers the car itself and includes two smaller forward displays alongside the main touchscreen.
The Bottom Line
Elon Musk stated at the event that Roadster production will begin in 2028, and the interface may still change before deliveries. The Rocket version is not approved for public road use, with reservations open for a $50,000 payment; Thrust is a limited release and Rocket is invite-only. The public can view the car at the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles from October 24 to 27.
