Roadster Screen Displays 5,500 PSI Thruster Status

Tesla released a brief video on Friday detailing the touchscreen interface for its forthcoming Roadster, offering a first look at the vehicle's operating system ahead of production. The 34-second clip posted to X showcases the cockpit display, which the company stated was created with the design philosophy: "Inspired by fighter jet cockpits, Roadster's interface was designed around the pilot."

The footage begins with a dark screen featuring a three-dimensional wireframe representation of the car situated next to the squared-off yoke steering wheel. Interactions with this model allow users to access controls for the rear wing, enabling adjustments for low drag or high downforce configurations. The interface also includes a charging screen with a charge limit slider and a compact media player.

A significant portion of the video demonstrates the Track Mode functions. This view provides a real-time circuit map, a record of lap times for the session, and monitoring data for brake and motor temperatures. It further displays pressure and temperature readings for every tire. A configuration page within Track Mode allows for the selection of aero modes labeled Auto, Low Drag, High Downforce, or Custom, along with the ability to modify aero and brake balance, and to disable stability and traction control.

Along the bottom of the screen, a status bar indicates "Thruster · 5,500 PSI" and includes a "Boost Ready" indicator. This gauge connects the software interface to the hardware components displayed by Tesla near Waco, Texas on October 15. The Thrust and Rocket models are equipped with cold gas thrusters powered by carbon overwrapped pressure vessels.

Tesla lists acceleration figures of under 0.9 seconds and under 0.59 seconds to reach 60 mph for the Thrust and Rocket versions, respectively. The base Performance model utilizes a fan and ground sealing system to achieve grip, and the aero settings on the screen correspond to the active wings and suction system used by the Roadster to generate downforce.

The Roadster's layout differs from other Tesla vehicles, placing the car model at the center of the home page instead of a map. The company's specifications also list two smaller forward displays alongside the main screen. Tesla has not confirmed if the telemetry from Track Mode will be available in the Model 3 Performance or other cars.

This interface could be modified before the vehicle reaches customers. Elon Musk said at the October 15 event that Roadster production will begin in 2028. Tesla states the Rocket version is not approved for public road use. Reservations are currently open with a $50,000 payment, while the Thrust is offered as a limited release and the Rocket is invite only.

Those wanting to see the car in person can do so this weekend. The Roadster goes on display in the lobby of the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles from October 24 to 27, according to Sawyer Merritt, the first time the public will be able to view it up close.