Tesla Reveals Fighter-Jet-Style Cockpit Interface for Upcoming Roadster

For car enthusiasts waiting for details on Tesla’s most anticipated vehicle, the company has finally lifted the veil on the driver experience. On Friday afternoon, the automaker released a thirty-four-second video on social media platform X, offering a detailed walkthrough of the next-generation Roadster’s digital cockpit.

The footage, which features a black background with red graphical overlays, highlights a 3D wireframe model of the car positioned next to its squared-off steering yoke. The interface is explicitly designed with a pilot-centric philosophy, drawing inspiration from fighter jet cockpits. Users can interact with the 3D model to access specific controls, such as adjusting the rear wing for either low drag or high downforce configurations. The menu also includes standard utility pages for charging status, complete with a limit bar, and a compact music player. A navigation bar at the bottom of the screen provides quick access to Home, Vehicle, Listen, Climate, and Navigate tabs.

The majority of the demonstration focuses on the vehicle’s Track Mode, a feature tailored for high-performance driving. This view displays a live map of the circuit alongside real-time data, including session lap times, brake and motor temperatures, and individual pressure and temperature readouts for each tire. A dedicated setup page allows drivers to select from Auto, Low Drag, High Downforce, or Custom aerodynamic modes. Additionally, users can fine-tune aero balance and brake balance, or completely disable stability and traction control systems for maximum performance.

A critical element of this interface is the status bar at the bottom of the screen, which displays “Thruster · 5,500 PSI” next to a “Boost Ready” indicator. This software feature directly correlates with the hardware Tesla showcased near Waco, Texas, on October 15. The Thrust and Rocket variants of the car utilize cold gas thrusters powered by carbon-overwrapped pressure vessels. According to technical breakdowns of the three available configurations, the Thrust version is expected to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under 0.9 seconds, while the Rocket version achieves this in under 0.59 seconds. The base Performance model, which lacks these thrusters, relies on a fan and ground sealing system for grip, aligning with the active wing and suction settings visible on the screen.

The Roadster’s user interface represents a significant departure from Tesla’s existing lineup. Unlike the Model 3 or other current vehicles, which typically center their home screen around a navigation map, the Roadster places the 3D car model at the center. The company’s website also indicates that the vehicle will feature two smaller forward-facing displays in addition to the main central touchscreen. It remains unclear whether this specialized Track Mode telemetry will eventually be integrated into other models, such as the Model 3 Performance.

While the interface offers a clear preview, it may still undergo changes before the car reaches customers. Elon Musk stated at a recent event that production of the Roadster is scheduled to begin in 2028. Notably, Tesla has indicated that the flagship Rocket version is not yet approved for use on public roads. Those interested in securing a unit can currently place a reservation with a $50,000 payment. The Thrust variant is described as a limited release, whereas the Rocket version will be available on an invite-only basis.

Potential buyers will have their first opportunity to examine the vehicle in person later this week. According to Sawyer Merritt, the Roadster will be displayed in the lobby of the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles from October 24 through October 27. This exhibition marks the first time the general public will be able to view the car up close.