Tesla reveals the cockpit interface for its new high speed Roadster

Tesla has released the most comprehensive view yet of the user interface inside its next generation Roadster, highlighting the tension between a consumer electric vehicle and a high performance machine inspired by fighter jets. In a thirty four second video shared on X on Friday afternoon, the company detailed how the cockpit is designed around the pilot. This release comes as the manufacturer prepares to launch a vehicle that promises performance levels far beyond its current lineup, specifically targeting the ultra fast market with a sleek and aggressive digital dashboard.

The video begins with a black screen featuring red graphics and a three dimensional wireframe of the car positioned next to the Roadster’s squared off steering yoke. Users can tap specific parts of the model to access various controls. These include settings for the rear wing, allowing drivers to switch between low drag and high downforce positions. The interface also displays a charging page with a limit bar and a compact music player. A row of tabs at the bottom of the screen provides quick access to home, vehicle settings, audio, climate control, and navigation functions.

The majority of the footage focuses on the Track Mode, which presents a driver centric layout. The dashboard features a live map of the circuit, a list of session lap times, and detailed readouts for brake and motor temperatures. Drivers can monitor pressure and temperature for each individual tire. A dedicated setup page allows for the selection of aero modes, including auto, low drag, high downforce, or custom configurations. Users can also fine tune aero balance and brake balance, or switch off stability and traction control systems for maximum performance.

A status bar at the bottom of the screen displays the thruster status with a reading of 5,500 PSI alongside a boost ready indicator. This software feature connects directly to the hardware unveiled near Waco, Texas, on October 15. The Thrust and Rocket versions utilize cold gas thrusters powered by carbon overwrapped pressure vessels. Tesla lists 0 to 60 mph acceleration times of under 0.9 seconds and under 0.59 seconds for these two models, respectively. The base Performance car, which relies on a fan and ground sealing system for grip, uses the aero settings visible on the screen to manage its active wings and suction setup.

The Roadster’s display layout marks a significant departure from the rest of Tesla’s vehicle lineup. Instead of centering the screen on a map, the Roadster places the car itself at the center of the home page. The company’s official page lists two smaller forward displays positioned alongside the main touchscreen. It remains unclear whether any of the detailed telemetry found in Track Mode will eventually be introduced to other models, such as the Model 3 Performance.

While the current interface provides a clear preview, it may still undergo changes before deliveries begin. Elon Musk stated at the recent event that production of the Roadster is scheduled to start in 2028. Tesla notes that the flagship Rocket version is not yet approved for public road use. Reservations are currently open with 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.

For those eager to see the vehicle in person, the first public opportunity arrives this weekend. The Roadster will be displayed in the lobby of the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles from October 24 to October 27. According to Sawyer Merritt, this will be the first time the general public can view the car up close. The event offers a tangible connection to the digital interface revealed in Friday’s video, allowing enthusiasts to witness the design choices that define Tesla’s latest flagship project.