Tesla Reveals Fighter-Jet-Inspired Roadster Interface Before Thruster Launch

Tesla released a thirty-four-second video on Friday afternoon offering the most detailed glimpse yet into the digital cockpit of its next-generation Roadster. The clip, shared on the social platform X, focuses entirely on the vehicle’s touchscreen interface, which the company describes as being inspired by fighter jet cockpits and designed specifically around the pilot.

The footage begins with a black screen featuring red graphics and a three-dimensional wireframe model of the car situated next to its squared-off steering yoke. As the video progresses, viewers see the system’s responsiveness; tapping different sections of the model brings up specific controls for the rear wing, allowing drivers to select between low-drag and high-downforce positions. The display also features a charging page with a charge limit bar and a compact music player. A row of tabs along the bottom of the screen provides navigation to Home, Vehicle, Listen, Climate, and Navigate sections.

The majority of the demonstration is dedicated to the vehicle’s Track Mode. This view presents a comprehensive dashboard that includes a live map of the circuit, a list of session lap times, and detailed thermal data for both brake and motor systems. Drivers can monitor pressure and temperature readouts for each individual tire. A setup page within this mode allows users to select from Auto, Low Drag, High Downforce, or Custom aerodynamic modes, while also enabling adjustments to aero and brake balance. Crucially, the interface permits drivers to switch stability and traction control systems off entirely.

Along the bottom of the Track Mode screen, a status bar displays the text “Thruster · 5,500 PSI” alongside a “Boost Ready” indicator. This software element directly connects the user interface to the hardware showcased in Waco, Texas, on October 15. The Thrust and Rocket variants of the car utilize cold gas thrusters powered by carbon overwrapped pressure vessels. According to previous breakdowns, these configurations are rated for 0-to-60 mph times of under 0.9 seconds and under 0.59 seconds, respectively.

In contrast, the base Performance model relies on a fan and ground sealing system to generate grip. The aerodynamic settings visible in the new video correspond to the active wings and suction setup previously detailed in technical analyses of how the Roadster generates downforce. This specific hardware configuration distinguishes the higher-tier models from the standard performance variant.

The layout of the Roadster’s interface marks a significant departure from the rest of Tesla’s current lineup. Instead of centering a map on the home screen as seen in other models, the Roadster places a representation of the car itself at the center of the display. Tesla’s official Roadster page lists two smaller forward-facing displays alongside the main touchscreen, though the company has not yet confirmed whether any of the Track Mode telemetry features will migrate to vehicles like the Model 3 Performance.

Potential buyers should note that the interface could still undergo changes before the vehicles are delivered. Elon Musk stated at the launch event that production of the Roadster will begin in 2028. Tesla has clarified that the flagship Rocket version is not approved for public road use, while the Thrust version is listed as a limited release and the Rocket version is invite-only.

Reservations for the vehicle are currently open with a payment of $50,000. For those eager to inspect the car in person, the first public opportunity arises this weekend. The Roadster will be on display in the lobby of the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles from October 24 to 27, according to Sawyer Merritt, marking the first time the general public will be able to view the vehicle up close.