First generation
The 2008–2012 Roadster that used a Lotus Elise chassis and lithium-ion cells.
Key facts
- Chassis
- Lotus Elise
- Pack
- 53 kWh
- Range
- 244 mi (393 km)
The car
The first-generation Roadster was built from 2008 to 2012 on a Lotus Elise chassis. The pack was 53 kWh, the EPA range was 244 miles (393 km), and the top speed was 125 mph (201 km/h). It is described as the first highway-legal series-production electric car to use lithium-ion cells.
More from History
Image: Tesla, Inc.
2017 reveal
The Semi-event surprise and the specification Tesla published that night.
Delays
Each slipped date recorded between the 2017 reveal and the 2026 event.
Image: Tesla, Inc.2026 unveil
The 15 October 2026 demonstration at McGregor and the reservations that reopened.
Image: Franz von HolzhausenRoadster shown at McGregor
Tesla unveiled the second-generation Roadster on 15 October 2026 and reopened reservations.