Tesla has confirmed that the next-generation Roadster will make its public debut on October 1, according to PCauto. The company's website now hosts a countdown page for the event, which may also see the launch of a limited edition equipped with a SpaceX-branded thruster package.
Based on information from Tesla's overseas website, the new Roadster is powered by a 200 kWh battery pack and a tri-motor all-wheel-drive system. The powertrain delivers a peak torque of 10,000 N·m at the wheels, enabling a 0-100 km/h sprint in just 2.1 seconds and a top speed exceeding 400 km/h. Tesla also claims a range of 1,000 kilometres on a single charge, though this figure is likely measured under the more optimistic CLTC standard; a WLTP estimate would be roughly 800-850 km (est.).
The most striking technical feature is the 'A71 cold-gas propulsion system', developed jointly with SpaceX. This system uses high-pressure gas nozzles without fuel combustion, which Tesla says can significantly enhance acceleration and even allow the car to briefly lift off the ground. It represents a crossover of aerospace technology into a civilian sports car.
The Roadster's debut comes amid a broader push by Tesla to refresh its lineup and maintain its edge in the electric sports car segment. While the company has not released pricing or full specifications for the production version, the October 1 event is expected to provide more details.
What to expect from the October 1 event
According to PCauto, the event will likely showcase the limited edition with the SpaceX package, which could be a highlight for enthusiasts. The standard Roadster is expected to follow later, with deliveries possibly starting in 2026 or beyond, though Tesla has not confirmed a timeline.
For context, the original Roadster, launched in 2008, was Tesla's first production car and helped establish the brand. The new model aims to push performance boundaries further, targeting a niche of ultra-high-performance electric vehicles, competing with the likes of the Rimac Nevera and the Lotus Evija.
As the EV market evolves, the Roadster's combination of extreme performance and long range could set new benchmarks. However, details on pricing and availability for markets outside the US remain scarce. Tesla has not announced whether the Roadster will be sold in China, where the company has a significant presence.
