Tesla Unveils Fighter Jet Inspired Interface for Upcoming Roadster

The digital cockpit of the next generation Tesla Roadster finally has a face. In a concise 34 second video released on X on Friday afternoon, the company offered the clearest view yet of the touchscreen interface that will define the driving experience. The accompanying caption noted that the design is inspired by fighter jet cockpits and was built specifically around the pilot.

The clip begins with a black screen featuring red graphics and a 3D wireframe of the car positioned beside the vehicle's squared off yoke. As viewers tap various parts of the digital model, controls for the rear wing appear, offering options for low drag and high downforce. A charging page with a limit bar and a compact music player are also visible. A row of navigation tabs along the bottom of the screen includes Home, Vehicle, Listen, Climate, and Navigate.

The majority of the footage focuses on Track Mode, which transforms the dashboard into a complex array of performance data. The display features a live circuit map, a list of session lap times, and real time readings for brake and motor temperatures. Drivers can also monitor pressure and temperature for each individual tire. A dedicated setup page allows users to select between Auto, Low Drag, High Downforce, or Custom aero modes, while also adjusting aero and brake balance. Stability and traction control can be switched off, and a status bar at the bottom indicates Thruster pressure at 5,500 PSI alongside a Boost Ready indicator.

This software directly connects to the hardware Tesla showcased near Waco, Texas, on October 15. The Thrust and Rocket variants utilize cold gas thrusters powered by carbon overwrapped pressure vessels. Tesla lists 0 to 60 mph acceleration times of under 0.9 seconds for the Thrust model and under 0.59 seconds for the Rocket version. The base Performance car, which lacks the rocket system, relies on a fan and ground sealing technology for grip, matching the active wing and suction settings visible on the screen.

The Roadster's user interface marks a significant shift from the rest of Tesla's current lineup. Instead of centering a map on the home screen, this model places a representation of the car itself in the middle. Tesla's official page also mentions two smaller forward displays that will accompany the main touchscreen. It remains unclear whether any of this advanced Track Mode telemetry will eventually make its way to other models, such as the Model 3 Performance.

Potential buyers should note that the interface is not final and could undergo changes before deliveries begin. Elon Musk stated at the recent event that production is scheduled to start in 2028. The company has also clarified that the flagship Rocket version is not yet approved for use on public roads. Reservations are currently open with a $50,000 payment, while the Thrust version is described as a limited release and the Rocket is invite only.

For those eager to see the physical vehicle, this weekend offers the first public opportunity. According to Sawyer Merritt, the Roadster will be on display in the lobby of the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles from October 24 to 27. This marks the first time the general public will be able to view the car up close before it enters production.