Tesla has reopened reservations for its next-generation Roadster, requiring customers to pay a $50,000 deposit weeks before the company unveils a redesigned version of the vehicle [1]. The reservation process involves an initial, fully refundable $5,000 credit card payment, followed by a $45,000 wire transfer within 10 days to secure a spot [1]. This renewed push comes nearly nine years after CEO Elon Musk first introduced the Roadster prototype in 2017, with the official unveiling of the redesigned model scheduled for October 1 at an event in Texas [1].
Elon Musk has promoted the upcoming event on social media, describing it as a "banger" and emphasizing the need for a live audience to confirm the authenticity of the presentation [1]. The event may feature a demonstration of a limited-edition Roadster equipped with cold-gas thrusters developed in collaboration with SpaceX, as suggested by recent reporting and Tesla's teaser imagery [1].
The Roadster program has undergone significant changes, shifting from a design based on Model S Plaid components to an all-new carbon-fiber hypercar, according to The Information [1]. When the Roadster was originally unveiled in November 2017, Tesla announced a $200,000 base price, 0-60 mph acceleration in 1.9 seconds, and a 620-mile range, with $250,000 payments accepted for a limited "Founders Series" version [1]. However, the vehicle never entered production as planned and has experienced repeated delays [1].
Details regarding the final price of the redesigned Roadster and how Tesla will handle customers who placed reservations years ago remain unclear. Tesla has not responded to requests for comment about reservation priority or updated vehicle specifications [1].
CONCLUSION
Tesla's reopening of Roadster reservations signals renewed momentum for its long-delayed hypercar, with a major unveiling event set for October 1. While the $50,000 deposit and hints of advanced features have generated anticipation, uncertainty persists regarding pricing and the handling of previous reservations. The market is likely to watch closely for further details and official announcements.