Tesla Roadster Interface: New Cockpit Details Revealed
A new video demonstrates the fighter jet-inspired touchscreen and track mode features available in the upcoming electric supercar.
By Julia Novak ·
Tesla released a detailed preview of the next generation Roadster's digital cockpit on Friday afternoon, providing the public with the most comprehensive look yet at the vehicle's user interface. The company shared a 34 second video on X that highlights how the touchscreen functions, emphasizing a design philosophy centered on the driver rather than the map.
The footage showcases a layout that departs significantly from Tesla's current lineup. Instead of a map focused display, the home screen places a 3D wireframe of the car at the center, positioned next to the vehicle's squared off yoke. Interacting with this model allows users to control the rear wing, selecting between low drag and high downforce configurations. The interface also includes a charging page with a charge limit bar and a music player, accessible via tabs for Home, Vehicle, Listen, Climate, and Navigate.
A significant portion of the demonstration focuses on Track Mode. This view presents a live circuit map alongside a list of session lap times. The dashboard displays critical performance data, including brake and motor temperatures, as well as individual pressure and temperature readouts for each tire. A dedicated setup page enables drivers to select from Auto, Low Drag, High Downforce, or Custom aero modes. It also allows for adjustments to aero balance and brake balance, with the option to switch off stability and traction control systems.
The software integration is closely tied to the hardware unveiled in Waco, Texas, on October 15. A status bar at the bottom of the screen displays 'Thruster · 5,500 PSI' next to a 'Boost Ready' indicator. This gauge connects the digital interface to the cold gas thrusters powered by carbon overwrapped pressure vessels found in the Thrust and Rocket versions. Tesla claims these high performance models achieve 0 to 60 mph times of under 0.9 seconds and under 0.59 seconds, respectively.
In contrast, the base Performance model relies on a fan and ground sealing system for grip. The on screen aero settings align with the active wings and suction setup previously detailed in analyses of the Roadster's downforce generation. The company has not confirmed whether any of the advanced telemetry seen in Track Mode will eventually be adopted for other vehicles, such as the Model 3 Performance.
Production of the Roadster is scheduled to begin in 2028, according to statements made by Elon Musk at the recent event. The flagship Rocket variant is not yet approved for public road use. Reservations are currently open with a $50,000 payment, while the Thrust model is designated as a limited release and the Rocket version remains invite only.
Public interest in the physical vehicle will increase this weekend as the Roadster goes on display in the lobby of the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles. According to Sawyer Merritt, the exhibition runs from October 24 to 27. This event marks the first opportunity for the general public to view the car up close since its initial reveal.
