Cockpit Reveal: Tesla Displays Thruster Interface for Next-Gen Roadster

A pressure reading of 5,500 PSI serves as the central focus of a newly released video showcasing the interior controls of Tesla's next generation Roadster. On Friday afternoon, the automaker posted a 34-second clip to X that offers the most detailed view yet of the vehicle's cockpit. The interface is explicitly designed around the pilot, drawing heavy inspiration from fighter jet cockpits. The video walks through the touchscreen functionality, highlighting how the software integrates with the car's high-performance hardware.

The digital display opens with a black screen featuring red graphics and a three-dimensional wireframe of the vehicle. This model sits adjacent to the car's squared-off yoke. Tapping various sections of the virtual model reveals controls for the rear wing, offering settings for low drag and high downforce positions. A charging page is also accessible, displaying a charge limit bar and a compact music player. Along the bottom of the screen, a row of navigation tabs includes options for Home, Vehicle, Listen, Climate, and Navigate.

The majority of the footage is dedicated to Track Mode. In this environment, the dashboard presents a live circuit map alongside a list of session lap times. It also monitors brake and motor temperatures, as well as pressure and temperature readouts for each individual tire. A specific setup page allows drivers to select from Auto, Low Drag, High Downforce, or Custom aero modes. Users can further adjust aero balance and brake balance, with the option to completely switch off stability and traction control. A status bar at the bottom of the screen displays the thruster pressure next to a "Boost Ready" indicator.

This software feature directly connects to the hardware Tesla revealed near Waco, Texas, on October 15. The Thrust and Rocket variants utilize cold gas thrusters powered by carbon overwrapped pressure vessels. Tesla claims these versions will accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under 0.9 seconds and under 0.59 seconds, respectively. The base Performance model, in contrast, relies on a fan and ground sealing system for grip. The on-screen aero settings align with the active wings and suction setup previously analyzed by Teslarati.

The Roadster's layout marks a significant departure from the rest of Tesla's current lineup. Rather than centering on a map, the home page places the car itself at the center of the display. The company's Roadster page lists two smaller forward displays that flank the main touchscreen. It remains unclear whether any of the detailed Track Mode telemetry will eventually find its way into other vehicles, such as the Model 3 Performance.

The interface is not final and could undergo further changes before deliveries begin. Elon Musk stated at the unveiling event that production is slated to start in 2028. The flagship Rocket version is currently not approved for public road use. Reservations are open with a $50,000 payment, while the Thrust version is listed as a limited release and the Rocket is invite only.

Public viewing of the physical vehicle is set to begin 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, this marks the first opportunity for the general public to view the car up close since its recent unveiling.