5,500 PSI: The Pressure Behind Tesla's New Roadster Interface

Tesla released a thirty-four second video on Friday afternoon, offering the most comprehensive look yet at the digital interface for its next generation Roadster. The clip, shared on the social platform X, walks viewers through the vehicle's touchscreen experience. The accompanying description notes that the design was inspired by fighter jet cockpits and centered around the pilot. This update provides a concrete view of the software that will accompany the hardware Tesla displayed near Waco, Texas, on October 15.

The demonstration begins with a black screen featuring red graphics and a three dimensional wireframe of the car. This model appears next to the vehicle's squared off yoke. By tapping various parts of the digital model, users can access controls for the rear wing, which includes options for low drag and high downforce positions. The interface also includes a charging page with a charge limit bar and a compact music player. A row of navigation tabs along the bottom of the screen provides access to Home, Vehicle, Listen, Climate, and Navigate.

A significant portion of the video focuses on Track Mode. In this view, the dashboard displays a live circuit map, a list of session lap times, and real time data for brake and motor temperatures. The system also provides specific pressure and temperature readouts for each individual tire. The setup page allows the driver to select from Auto, Low Drag, High Downforce, or Custom aero modes. Drivers can also adjust aero balance and brake balance, or switch off stability and traction control.

At the bottom of the Track Mode screen, a status bar displays the text Thruster 5,500 PSI alongside a Boost Ready indicator. This software feature connects directly to the hardware Tesla showcased last month. The Thrust and Rocket versions of the car utilize cold gas thrusters supplied by carbon overwrapped pressure vessels. The aero settings visible on the screen align with the active wings and suction setup previously detailed in analyses of how the Roadster generates downforce.

The interior layout marks a departure from Tesla's current lineup. Instead of centering the home page around a map, the Roadster places a model of the car itself in the center. Tesla's official page for the vehicle lists two smaller forward displays that accompany the main touchscreen. The company has not yet clarified whether any of the Track Mode telemetry features will be integrated into other models, such as the Model 3 Performance. Previous breakdowns indicate that the Thrust and Rocket models are capable of 0 to 60 mph times of under 0.9 seconds and under 0.59 seconds, respectively. The base Performance model relies on a fan and ground sealing system for grip.

While the interface is currently on display, it may still undergo changes before deliveries begin. Elon Musk stated at a recent event that Roadster production is scheduled to start in 2028. Tesla has noted that the flagship Rocket version is not yet approved for public road use. Reservations for the vehicle are open with a payment of $50,000. The Thrust model is listed as a limited release, while the Rocket version is available on an invite only basis.

The public will have their first opportunity to see the vehicle in person this weekend. The Roadster is set to be displayed in the lobby of the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles from October 24 to 27. According to Sawyer Merritt, this event will mark the first time the general public can view the car up close.