Key facts
- Tesla's design chief, Franz von Holzhausen, indicated the reveal of the second-generation Roadster is imminent.
- The Roadster has experienced multiple delays since its initial prototype unveiling in 2017.
- Elon Musk stated in October 2024 that the Roadster's development is secondary to more impactful projects.
- Tesla has recently increased design development efforts for the Roadster and filed trademark applications.
Tesla's design chief, Franz von Holzhausen, has suggested that the reveal of the long-awaited second-generation Roadster is approaching rapidly. Speaking on "Jay Leno's Garage," von Holzhausen responded to a question about the car's arrival by stating it would be "very soon." The Roadster's development has been protracted, with the prototype first shown in November 2017 and an initial launch target of 2020, which was subsequently missed due to factors including the COVID-19 pandemic.
Tesla has increasingly focused its resources on higher-volume vehicles, as well as advancements in artificial intelligence, autonomy, and robotics. In an October 2024 earnings call, CEO Elon Musk characterized the Roadster as a lower priority compared to projects with a more significant global impact, referring to it as "the cherry on the icing on the cake." Despite these stated priorities, there have been indications of renewed activity on the Roadster program, with reports of increased design development over the past summer and the filing of several trademark applications for insignia designs this year.
The original Tesla Roadster, produced from 2008 to 2012, was built on a Lotus Elise chassis and sold approximately 2,800 units globally, establishing the company's reputation for performance electric vehicles. The second-generation model was unveiled with promises of record-setting acceleration and range, with reservation holders having paid deposits ranging from $50,000 to $250,000.