But how much does the new Tesla Roadster cost, and when will customers be able to buy one?
The next-generation Tesla Roadster was originally announced with a starting price of $200,000, although final pricing for the production model has not been confirmed.
How Much Does the New Tesla Roadster Cost?
The Tesla Roadster’s originally announced base price was $200,000, making it significantly more expensive than Tesla’s mainstream electric vehicles, including the Model 3, Model Y, Model S, and Model X.
Here is a breakdown of the previously announced pricing and reservation information.
| Tesla Roadster | Price or Deposit |
|---|---|
| Original Base Model | $200,000 |
| Original Founders Series | $250,000 |
| Original Reservation Deposit | $50,000 |
| Final Production Price | Not Confirmed |
The $200,000 and $250,000 figures date back to Tesla’s earlier Roadster announcements and should not be treated as confirmed prices for the final production vehicle.
Tesla Roadster Performance and Specifications
Tesla has promoted the Roadster as an exceptionally fast electric sports car, with ambitious performance targets that could challenge traditional high-performance vehicles.
Originally advertised specifications included:
- 0–60 mph acceleration: 1.9 seconds for the originally proposed base vehicle.
- Top speed: More than 250 mph.
- Driving range: Up to 620 miles under Tesla’s original projections.
- Seating capacity: Four passengers in a 2+2 configuration.
- Drivetrain: All-wheel drive.
These specifications are historical manufacturer targets, not independently verified production specifications. Final performance figures could change substantially.
Will the New Tesla Roadster Have Rocket Thrusters?
One of the most unusual features proposed for the Tesla Roadster is an optional SpaceX-inspired package using cold-gas thrusters.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk has discussed using compressed-gas technology to improve acceleration and vehicle performance.
The proposed technology could potentially allow the Roadster to achieve acceleration figures beyond those of conventional electric sports cars.
However, the final design, price, availability, and regulatory approval of any rocket-assisted system remain uncertain.
At its October 15, 2026 unveiling, Tesla demonstrated a Roadster prototype performing aerial maneuvers using cold-gas thrusters and a powerful suction system. The demonstration showed the vehicle briefly lifting into the air, although sustained flight was not demonstrated.
What Are the New Tesla Roadster Versions?
Tesla has introduced three configurations for its next-generation Roadster.
| Version | Key Features | Reservation |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | Two seats, active aerodynamics, suction system | $50,000 |
| Thrust | Two seats, rear cold-gas thrusters | $250,000 |
| Rocket | One seat, additional thrusters for aerial maneuvers | Invitation Only |
The reservation amounts do not represent the vehicles’ final selling prices.
When Will the New Tesla Roadster Be Released?
Tesla is targeting 2028 for the beginning of Roadster production.
The second-generation Roadster was first unveiled in November 2017, with an initial production target of 2020. However, the project has experienced several delays.
Tesla has not confirmed an exact delivery date, and the 2028 timeline remains subject to change.
Can You Reserve the New Tesla Roadster?
Yes. Tesla has reopened reservations for its next-generation Roadster.
The Performance version requires a $50,000 reservation commitment, with reports indicating an initial $5,000 payment followed by another $45,000 within 10 days.
Customers interested in reserving a Roadster can visit the official Tesla Roadster website to review current reservation terms and availability.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much will the 2026 Tesla Roadster cost?
Tesla originally announced a $200,000 starting price for the next-generation Roadster in 2017. However, final pricing for the redesigned model unveiled in October 2026 has not been announced.
Is the new Tesla Roadster available to buy?
The Roadster is available for reservation, but customer deliveries have not begun. Tesla currently targets production in 2028.
How fast is the new Tesla Roadster?
Tesla has reported a top speed exceeding 230 mph and acceleration below one second from 0 to 60 mph for certain thruster-equipped configurations. These figures have not been independently verified in a production vehicle.
Can the Tesla Roadster actually fly?
Tesla demonstrated a prototype briefly lifting into the air using compressed-gas thrusters. The Rocket configuration is not currently approved for public road use, and its ability to perform sustained flight has not been established.
How much is the Tesla Roadster reservation deposit?
The Performance configuration carries a $50,000 reservation commitment, while the Thrust configuration has been listed with a $250,000 reservation amount. The Rocket configuration is invitation-only.
Final Thoughts
The new Tesla Roadster could become one of the most technologically ambitious electric sports cars ever produced.
With three configurations, extraordinary acceleration claims, and SpaceX-inspired thruster technology, Tesla is attempting to redefine what an electric performance vehicle can accomplish.
However, the biggest question remains its final price.
While the original Roadster was announced at $200,000, Tesla has not confirmed how much the redesigned Performance, Thrust, or Rocket configurations will cost.
For now, prospective buyers can reserve select versions while waiting for additional pricing details and the planned 2028 production launch.
Article updated October 16, 2026. Pricing, specifications, and production timelines remain subject to change.