Tesla reveals new cockpit interface for the next Roadster

A brief clip released this week offers the clearest glimpse yet into the driver experience of Tesla’s next flagship electric car.

The company shared a thirty-four second video on social media on Friday afternoon, walking viewers through the interior display system. The accompanying description noted that the design was inspired by fighter jet cockpits and built around the pilot. This new interface marks a significant shift from the familiar layouts found in other models in the current lineup.

The video begins with a dark screen featuring red graphics and a three-dimensional wireframe of the vehicle. This model sits next to the car’s squared-off yoke. Interacting with the digital model reveals controls for the rear wing, allowing users to switch between low drag and high downforce settings. The screen also displays a charging page with a charge limit bar and a compact music player. A row of tabs at the bottom of the display provides access to home, vehicle settings, audio, climate control, and navigation features.

The majority of the footage focuses on the track mode environment. This view presents a live map of the circuit alongside a list of session lap times. Drivers can monitor brake and motor temperatures, as well as specific pressure and temperature readings for each tire. A dedicated setup page allows for the selection of aero modes, ranging from auto to custom. Users can also adjust aero and brake balance, or switch off stability and traction control for maximum performance.

A status bar at the bottom of the track mode screen displays the text Thruster and 5,500 PSI next to a Boost Ready indicator. This software element connects directly to the hardware demonstrated near Waco, Texas, earlier this month. The Thrust and Rocket versions utilize cold gas thrusters fed by carbon overwrapped pressure vessels. Tesla lists 0 to 60 mph times of under 0.9 seconds for the Thrust model and under 0.59 seconds for the Rocket model.

The base Performance variant does not use thrusters but instead relies on a fan and ground sealing system to generate grip. The aero settings visible on the screen correspond to the active wings and suction setup that creates this downforce. This distinction highlights the different engineering approaches taken for the three available configurations of the vehicle.

The layout represents a clear departure from the rest of the company’s current vehicles. Rather than centering a map, the Roadster places a representation of the car itself in the middle of the home page. The company’s product page lists two smaller forward displays that accompany the main touchscreen. It remains unclear whether any of this detailed track mode telemetry will eventually be introduced to the Model 3 Performance or other existing models.

The final interface could still undergo changes before customers take delivery. The company has indicated that production is scheduled to begin in 2028. It is also important to note that the top-tier Rocket version is not approved for public road use at this time. Reservations are currently open with a $50,000 payment, while the Thrust version is listed as a limited release and the Rocket version is invite only.

For those eager to see the vehicle in person, the first public opportunity arrives this weekend. The car will be on display in the lobby of the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles from October 24 through October 27. This marks the first time the general public will be able to view the new model up close before it enters the production phase.