Roadster Cockpit Layout Surfaces

A new video published on Friday offers a glimpse into the upcoming Roadster’s digital interface, specifically outlining the cockpit layout designed for driver operations. The footage demonstrates the touchscreen navigation and various vehicle controls, presenting a specific design philosophy for the forthcoming model.

According to the accompanying text, the interface is 'Inspired by fighter jet cockpits' and created with the 'pilot' in focus. The visual presentation begins with a wireframe graphic of the car and a squared-off yoke steering wheel. Users can interact with the model to access controls for the rear wing, including settings for low drag and high downforce, alongside charging options and a music player. The bottom of the screen features a navigation bar with tabs for Home, Vehicle, Listen, Climate, and Navigate.

The majority of the footage focuses on the Track Mode configuration. This view provides a live map of a circuit, a record of lap times, and readouts concerning brake and motor temperatures, as well as tire pressure and temperature. The setup menu allows for the adjustment of aero and brake balance, as well as the disabling of stability and traction control.

A status bar at the bottom of the screen in Track Mode displays 'Thruster · 5,500 PSI' alongside a 'Boost Ready' indicator. This interface connects to the hardware capabilities previously demonstrated near Waco, Texas on October 15. The Thrust and Rocket versions utilize cold gas thrusters supplied by carbon overwrapped pressure vessels, with acceleration figures of under 0.9 seconds and under 0.59 seconds for 0 to 60 mph respectively. The base Performance configuration relies on a fan and ground sealing system for grip.

The Roadster’s layout differs from other vehicles in Tesla’s fleet. Rather than a map-centered screen, the Roadster’s home page places the car itself at the center. Furthermore, Tesla’s Roadster page lists two smaller forward displays in addition to the main touchscreen. It remains unknown whether the telemetry displayed in Track Mode will be available in the Model 3 Performance or other vehicles.

The interface may change prior to release. Elon Musk stated at the October 15 event that Roadster production will begin in 2028, and Tesla indicates the flagship Rocket version is not approved for public road use. Reservations are currently accepted with a $50,000 payment, with Thrust listed as a limited release and Rocket as invite only.

Public access to view the vehicle in person is scheduled to begin this weekend. The Roadster will be displayed in the lobby of the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles from October 24 to 27. This event marks the first opportunity for the public to view the car up close.