Tesla to Unveil Long-Delayed Next-Generation Roadster in Texas

The original Roadster was designed and engineered by a team led by founding CEO Martin Eberhard, used a Lotus Elise chassis and was first delivered in 2008. It sold for roughly $100,000 in small volumes until 2012.

The next-generation Roadster is expected to be a high-end, low-volume model that relies on SpaceX technology, such as cold gas thrusters, to enable it to hover. Tesla has reopened reservations for the refreshed Roadster in recent weeks, accepting $50,000 deposits from prospective buyers in the United States, Canada and China. Executives are expected to disclose specific pricing, details and production targets. Musk supporters have been gearing up for the demonstration and expressing excitement on social media, but the Roadster is not likely to have any material financial impact on the company, according to CNBC.

Musk first promoted the refreshed Roadster concept at an event in November 2017 and the following June in a series of tweets. He wrote at the time, "SpaceX option package for new Tesla Roadster will include ~10 small rocket thrusters arranged seamlessly around car." The engines would improve speed and braking, and may "even allow a Tesla to fly," he said.

Tesla started taking $50,000 deposits in 2017 but has since missed every targeted delivery date. As recently as last October, Musk was hyping a Roadster demo that he hoped would happen before the end of 2025. That did not take place either.

Musk's former friend and OpenAI co-founder Sam Altman mocked the Tesla CEO in posts on X last year over the extreme delays, showing screenshots of his own reservation and refund requests. "I really was excited for the car! And I understand delays," Altman wrote. "But 7.5 years has felt like a long time to wait." Altman got his refund, and the two ended up in court over a separate matter earlier this year related to OpenAI's governance and ownership structure.

According to filings with the Federal Aviation Administration, Tesla established a no-fly zone around the SpaceX facility where it plans to show off the vehicle. The company had to scrap a demo on Oct. 1 due to weather issues.

Tesla is scheduled to report third-quarter results after the bell on Wednesday.