Tesla reveals the cockpit view for the next Roadster

Tesla has finally let fans peek inside the driver’s seat of its most anticipated vehicle to date. On Friday afternoon, the company released a brief thirty-four-second clip on X that offers the clearest look yet at the interior of the next-generation Roadster. The video is not just a static image; it is an interactive walkthrough that highlights how the car’s digital interface is structured for high-performance driving.

The visual design leans heavily into a military aviation aesthetic. The clip opens with a black screen featuring red graphics and a three-dimensional wireframe of the vehicle. This model sits next to the Roadster’s distinct squared-off yoke. As the video progresses, it shows how tapping different parts of the digital car model brings up specific controls. These include settings for the rear wing, allowing drivers to switch between low drag and high downforce positions. There is also a charging page that displays a charge limit bar and includes a small music player. A row of tabs at the bottom of the screen provides quick access to Home, Vehicle, Listen, Climate, and Navigate functions.

The majority of the footage focuses on what Tesla calls Track Mode. In this view, the dashboard is packed with real-time data essential for circuit driving. Drivers can see a live map of the track, a list of their session lap times, and critical temperature readouts for both the brakes and the motors. The system also monitors the pressure and temperature of each individual tire. A dedicated setup page allows the driver to fine-tune the car’s performance. Options include selecting from Auto, Low Drag, High Downforce, or Custom aero modes. Drivers can also adjust the aero balance and brake balance, or completely turn off stability and traction control for maximum speed.

A key feature highlighted in the lower status bar is the thruster gauge, which reads 5,500 PSI alongside a “Boost Ready” indicator. This software element connects directly to the hardware Tesla unveiled near Waco, Texas, on October 15. The Thrust and Rocket versions of the car utilize cold gas thrusters powered by carbon-overwrapped pressure vessels. Tesla claims these versions can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under 0.9 seconds and under 0.59 seconds, respectively. In contrast, the base Performance model relies on a fan and ground sealing system to generate grip, with the on-screen aero settings matching the active wings and suction setup previously detailed.

This new interface marks a significant departure from the rest of Tesla’s current lineup. Instead of centering a map on the home screen, the Roadster places a 3D model of the car itself at the center. The company’s website also lists two smaller forward-facing displays that work alongside the main touchscreen. It remains unclear whether any of the detailed Track Mode telemetry seen in the video will eventually make its way to other models, such as the Model 3 Performance.

While the interface is now public, it could still undergo changes before the cars are delivered to customers. Elon Musk stated at the recent event that production of the Roadster is set to begin in 2028. Tesla notes that the flagship Rocket version is not yet approved for public road use. For those eager to secure a spot, reservations are open with a $50,000 payment. The Thrust version is listed as a limited release, while the Rocket model is invite-only.

For New York and New Jersey residents who want to see the car in person, the first public opportunity is arriving this weekend. The Roadster will be on display in the lobby of the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles from October 24 to 27. According to Sawyer Merritt, this will be the first time the general public can view the vehicle up close.