Tesla Unveils Roadster Cockpit With Jet Style Controls

Tesla released a 34 second video on X on Friday afternoon, offering prospective buyers a detailed look at the touchscreen interface for the next generation Roadster. The footage walks through the vehicle’s digital controls, emphasizing a design philosophy that draws directly from fighter jet cockpits. The accompanying caption stated that the interface is built around the pilot, prioritizing driver focus and rapid access to performance data.

The video opens with a black screen displaying red graphics and a 3D wireframe of the car. This model sits next to the vehicle’s squared off yoke. Tapping different sections of the digital car reveals specific controls. One area manages the rear wing, allowing users to toggle between low drag and high downforce positions. Other accessible functions include a charging page with a limit bar, a compact music player, and a bottom row of tabs for Home, Vehicle, Listen, Climate, and Navigate.

A major portion of the demonstration focuses on the dedicated Track Mode. This screen displays a live circuit map alongside a list of session lap times. Real time data streams for brake and motor temperatures appear prominently. The interface provides specific pressure and temperature readouts for each of the four tires. A setup page lets drivers select from Auto, Low Drag, High Downforce, or Custom aero modes. Users can also adjust aero balance and brake balance, and switch off stability and traction control.

At the bottom of the Track Mode display, a status bar shows the text Thruster 5,500 PSI next to a Boost Ready indicator. This software feature connects to the hardware Tesla showcased near Waco, Texas on October 15. The Thrust and Rocket versions of the car use cold gas thrusters powered by carbon overwrapped pressure vessels. Previous breakdowns indicate the Thrust model reaches 60 mph in under 0.9 seconds, while the Rocket version does so in under 0.59 seconds. The base Performance model uses a fan and ground sealing system for grip instead.

The interior layout differs from other Tesla models. The home page centers on a model of the car itself rather than a map. The company’s official page lists two smaller forward displays that accompany the main touchscreen. Tesla has not stated whether the Track Mode telemetry features will appear in other vehicles, such as the Model 3 Performance. The interface shown in the video may still change before deliveries begin.

Elon Musk said at a recent event that production of the Roadster is scheduled to start in 2028. Tesla has noted that 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 on an invite only basis. The aero settings visible on the screen align with the active wings and suction setup detailed in previous analyses of the car’s downforce generation.

The public can view 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 stated that this event will mark the first time the general public can view the car up close.