The long-awaited Tesla Roadster, the electric supercar originally unveiled in 2017, may finally hit production in 2025, according to Tesla CEO Elon Musk.
Although the Roadster was initially promised for delivery in 2020, a series of delays have kept fans waiting.
Musk now assures that Tesla is close to finalizing its design, calling it a project that will be “something spectacular.”
A Brief History of Delays
When the Roadster concept debuted, it made headlines with its jaw-dropping claims:
- 0 to 60 mph in 1.9 seconds.
- A top speed exceeding 250 mph (402 km/h).
- A highway range of 1000 km (621 miles) per charge.
Despite the initial excitement, the Roadster took a backseat to Tesla’s higher-priority projects like the Model Y, Cybertruck, and Semi.
The COVID-19 pandemic and Tesla’s focus on mass-market vehicles further pushed the Roadster down the priority list.
Musk has likened the Roadster to “dessert” while the company focused on the “meat and potatoes” of its product lineup.
What to Expect from the 2025 Tesla Roadster
The upcoming Roadster aims to set new benchmarks for electric vehicles.
Musk has teased features that combine Tesla’s automotive expertise with SpaceX’s aerospace technology. Some highlights include:
- Performance: Musk claims the Roadster will accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under one second using a “SpaceX rocket thruster option.” While bold, this claim has left some industry analysts skeptical about its practicality.
- Battery and Range: Equipped with a 200 kWh battery pack, the Roadster promises an unparalleled range of 1000 km on a single charge.
- Design: The Roadster’s sleek four-seater design, showcased in 2017, is expected to evolve with the final version. It may include a removable glass roof and advanced aerodynamics.
Pricing and Reservations
The Tesla Roadster is poised to be Tesla’s most expensive vehicle, with an estimated starting price of $200,000 (approximately AUD $300,000).
A Founders’ Series edition is expected to cost even more, with early reservation holders having already placed deposits as high as $319,000.
Challenges and Speculation
While Musk’s claims have generated excitement, the Roadster’s production timeline has repeatedly been pushed back.
Analysts note that Tesla’s emphasis on scaling production for more accessible models, like the Model Y, could still delay the Roadster.
Additionally, integrating aerospace-inspired features, such as rocket thrusters, may face regulatory and technical hurdles.
Competitive Landscape
The Roadster will enter a competitive market alongside electric hypercars like the Rimac Nevera and traditional combustion supercars like the Bugatti Chiron.
However, its blend of Tesla’s cutting-edge technology and promises of unprecedented performance may give it a unique edge.
CarExplore's Thoughts
The Tesla Roadster’s journey from concept to production has been a long and winding road.
While fans remain eager, the repeated delays have tempered some of the initial excitement.
If Tesla delivers on its bold promises, the Roadster could redefine the electric supercar market.
Until then, enthusiasts can only wait and hope that 2025 marks the Roadster’s triumphant arrival.
Stay tuned for updates as Tesla gears up to finally bring its game-changing supercar to life.
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Aize Carter
