Tesla Roadster interior revealed with jet-inspired controls and live thruster data

Prospective buyers of the next generation Tesla Roadster can now see how the vehicle's digital interface functions. On Friday afternoon, the company posted a 34 second video to the social platform X. The clip demonstrates the touchscreen experience inside the car, which Tesla says is modeled after fighter jet cockpits. The design centers on the driver rather than the traditional map layout found in other Tesla models.

The video starts with a black screen displaying red graphics and a 3D wireframe of the car. This model appears next to the Roadster's squared off steering yoke. Users can tap parts of this digital representation to control the rear wing. The menu offers options for low drag and high downforce positions. The screen also includes a charging page with a charge limit bar and a compact music player. A row of tabs at the bottom provides access to Home, Vehicle, Listen, Climate, and Navigate functions.

A major part of the demonstration features the Track Mode. In this setting, the dashboard shows a live circuit map and a list of session lap times. The system provides real time data for brake and motor temperatures. It also displays specific pressure and temperature readouts for each individual tire. The setup page lets drivers choose from Auto, Low Drag, High Downforce, or Custom aero modes. Users can also adjust aero and brake balance, or turn off stability and traction control.

At the bottom of the Track Mode screen, a status bar reads Thruster 5,500 PSI with a Boost Ready indicator. This software connects to the hardware Tesla showed near Waco, Texas, on October 15. The Thrust and Rocket versions of the car use cold gas thrusters supplied by carbon overwrapped pressure vessels. Previous breakdowns indicate the Thrust model can go from 0 to 60 mph in under 0.9 seconds. The Rocket model achieves the same speed in under 0.59 seconds. The base Performance model uses a fan and ground sealing system for grip.

The Roadster's interior layout differs from the rest of Tesla's current lineup. Instead of a central map, the home page features a model of the car itself. The company's official page lists two smaller forward displays that accompany the main touchscreen. Tesla has not said if Track Mode telemetry will appear in other vehicles, such as the Model 3 Performance. The interface may still change before deliveries begin. Elon Musk said at a recent event that production is scheduled to start in 2028.

The flagship Rocket version is not yet approved for public road use. Reservations are open for a payment of $50,000. The Thrust model is listed as a limited release, while the Rocket version is available only by invite. The public will have its first chance to see the vehicle in person this weekend. The Roadster will be displayed in the lobby of the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles from October 24 to 27. Sawyer Merritt noted that this event marks the first time the general public can view the car up close.